Realistically when people say “it’s a project phase”, fans of a big team still expect a challenge for top 4 and anything less is unacceptable. Not saying it’s right or wrong, but I’ve just never seen fans be happy with a team in transition finishing mid table or worse.

I think the style of play can contribute. Udogie’s two yellow cards are due to him stretching to stop an attack because the defense was so stretched when they lost possession. I would even argue Van De Ven’s hamstring injury could be exacerbated from constant start stop sprints.

Not to say this style isn’t worth trying, but it needs either whatever Klopp’s doctor is injecting into his players or way more players who can rotate in and out.

I guess it depends on whether they thought it was deliberate. I don’t know the breakdown of the rules, but usually an accidental forearm in the face, if it’s light enough won’t get a red, but definitely a foul.