Former Liverpool striker El Hadji-Diouf has poured cold water over the title hopes of his old employers, handing Manchester City a major title boost in the process.
Jurgen Klopp's side were involved in a fierce title chase with City last season, with Pep Guardiola's side eventually emerging victorious and finishing one point ahead of the Reds.
Liverpool went on to win the Champions League and are seen as City's main competitors in pursuit of next year's crown, as Guardiola seeks a third consecutive Premier League title.
However, despite an incredible campaign last season, former Liverpool striker Diouf has warned his old club that they missed their chance to win the title.
"They were very good last season. I can't believe they can play like this next season. They missed the chance to win the title," he told A Bola .
"Every season is different and the way they have done it, it will be impossible to repeat such a good course.
"Their level of performance was incredible, and looking at how they lost the title of English champions with a distance of one point. We have to be realistic.
"City is a great rival because they struggled a lot to get to the title. In my opinion, Liverpool will not be able to produce the same level they produced last season."
However, he had kinder words for compatriot Sadio Mane and his teammate Mohamed Salah, adding: "They are the two best players in the world and their contributions to Liverpool can't be underestimated."
City and Liverpool will renew their rivalry on Sunday August 4th in the Community Shield, raising the curtain for the 2019-20 season.
