The Kopite View

I think Liverpool’s right-back situation is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

Jeremie Frimpong arrived at Anfield with an outstanding reputation for his pace and attacking ability, but things haven’t quite worked out as Liverpool would have hoped. Ronald Araújo has increasingly been used in the position, while Conor Bradley’s injury has left Andoni Iraola short of dependable options.

Now another name has emerged as a possible solution.

According to Italian outlet TuttoMercatoWeb, Liverpool have Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu on their shortlist as they assess their future at right-back. The report also says Juventus are keen to secure the Frenchman’s long-term future amid interest from Anfield.

And I can understand why Liverpool would be interested.

Kalulu offers something different

Kalulu isn’t simply a right-back who can run up and down the touchline.

The 26-year-old is capable of playing at right-back and centre-back, giving him the sort of versatility that could be extremely useful for Iraola.

Liverpool need more than somebody who can contribute going forward. They need a defender who can give the team greater security, particularly against opponents who will look to exploit space down the flanks.

That is where Kalulu could appeal.

He has experience in different defensive roles, and his ability to move between right-back and centre-back would give Iraola more flexibility when selecting his back four.

It would also mean Liverpool wouldn’t necessarily have to make another change if injuries disrupted their defensive options.

For me, that versatility is one of the most attractive aspects of this reported interest.

Frimpong’s future is becoming an important question

Let’s be honest: Frimpong hasn’t consistently delivered what Liverpool expected when they signed him from Bayer Leverkusen.

His pace and attacking instincts are obvious, but Liverpool also need their right-back to defend reliably. There have been concerns about that side of his game, and Araújo’s performances have made the competition for the position increasingly interesting.

I’m not suggesting Frimpong has no future at Liverpool. He has qualities that could still prove valuable, and it would be premature to write him off completely.

But Liverpool have to consider every possibility.

If Iraola believes the position needs strengthening, the recruitment team must identify players who can improve the balance of the side.

Kalulu could be one of those options.

TuttoMercatoWeb reports that he is among Liverpool’s shortlisted candidates, alongside Roma’s Brazilian defender Wesley. That suggests the club may be considering more than one profile as they plan for the future at right-back.

Juventus have no intention of making it easy

There is, however, a significant complication.

Juventus want to keep Kalulu.

The report says the Italian club are working on a new contract to secure his future, with his current deal running until 2029. He has become an important part of their defensive plans, so they have little reason to welcome Liverpool’s interest.

That could make any potential deal difficult.

Liverpool might see Kalulu as an attractive option, but Juventus will want to protect their own squad. A new contract could also strengthen their position in any future negotiations.

And that is why this is worth watching rather than treating it as an imminent transfer.

There is a difference between a player appearing on a shortlist and Liverpool actually making a move.

For now, the reporting points to interest, not an agreed deal.

Would Kalulu be the right fit for Iraola?

I think there is a sensible argument for it.

Liverpool already have attacking quality in their wide positions. What they need from right-back is someone who can contribute in possession without leaving the defence exposed.

Kalulu’s ability to play centrally as well as on the right could make him particularly useful in a squad where defensive injuries have caused problems.

He would also give Iraola another option if Araújo’s loan spell ends without Liverpool making his move permanent.

That said, I wouldn’t assume Kalulu would automatically solve every problem. Moving from Serie A to the Premier League brings its own challenges, and Liverpool would need to be confident that his qualities fit the way Iraola wants his team to play.

But the profile makes sense.

Liverpool need to get this decision right

The right-back position has become one of the more interesting questions surrounding Liverpool’s squad.

Frimpong still has plenty to prove, Bradley’s fitness remains important, and Araújo has shown that a more defensively reliable option can be valuable.

Kalulu would bring versatility and experience, but Juventus are determined to keep him.

That leaves Liverpool with a decision to make about what they really want from the position.

Do they stick with Frimpong and give him more time to adapt? Do they pursue a specialist right-back? Or do they target somebody like Kalulu, who could cover more than one defensive role?

Personally, I would welcome Liverpool exploring the market if they believe they can find the right player.

The important thing is that they recruit for what the team needs, not simply for another big name.

Kalulu is an interesting option, and Juventus’ efforts to keep him suggest they value him highly.

Whether Liverpool turn that reported interest into a serious pursuit remains to be seen.

But if the Reds are planning for life beyond Frimpong, Pierre Kalulu is certainly a name worth keeping an eye on.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

If this latest report is accurate, Andoni Iraola has finally identified the position Liverpool need to address in January.

And honestly, I can understand why.

According to Indykaila News, Iraola is demanding a new No. 6 when the winter transfer window opens, believing that strengthening defensive midfield is the priority if Liverpool are going to take the next step tactically.

It is a significant claim, and one that has not been independently confirmed. But it raises an issue that Liverpool supporters have been discussing for a long time.

Liverpool need more protection in the middle of the park.

We’ve spent plenty of money strengthening the attack and bringing in exciting players, but having talented footballers isn’t enough if the balance of the team isn’t right.

And that is where I think Iraola could have a big decision to make.

Liverpool need a proper midfield anchor

I’ve said before that I like what Iraola is trying to do with Liverpool.

I want us to be aggressive, get the ball forward quickly and play with an attacking mentality. I’m not asking for a return to cautious football where we spend half the match passing sideways.

But attacking football still needs a solid foundation.

When Liverpool commit players forward, somebody has to recognise the danger, protect the centre-backs and stop opposition teams breaking through the middle.

That is what a good No. 6 can offer.

It isn’t just about making tackles or kicking opponents off the ball. It’s about positioning, reading the game, covering space and knowing when to hold your position rather than charging forward.

And I think Liverpool have sometimes lacked that balance.

The concern was clear during the early-season draw with Newcastle, when Liverpool were exposed on the counter-attack. Former captain Steven Gerrard has also called for a specialist defensive midfielder, arguing that the position has been sorely missed since Fabinho left in 2023.

That doesn’t mean Ryan Gravenberch or Dominik Szoboszlai are bad players.

Far from it.

But having good midfielders is not the same as having the right balance of midfielders.

Iraola needs to get the best out of his attacking players

This is the part that interests me most.

Liverpool have invested heavily in their attacking options, and I want to see those players given the platform to flourish.

Florian Wirtz needs the freedom to create. Szoboszlai needs opportunities to get forward. Gravenberch can carry the ball and drive through midfield.

But if too many players move forward at the same time, Liverpool can leave themselves vulnerable when possession is lost.

A specialist No. 6 could help provide that security.

He wouldn’t need to dominate every game or produce spectacular performances. Sometimes the best defensive midfielder is the player you barely notice because he is always in the right position.

He wins the ball, closes the passing lane, slows down a counter-attack and gives his teammates the confidence to take risks.

Those things don’t always show up in the highlights, but they can make an enormous difference to a team.

And with Iraola wanting Liverpool to play aggressively, that protection could be particularly important.

There are already some names to consider

Liverpool have been linked with several midfielders, including Monaco’s Lamine Camara.

Reports in September suggested Liverpool had explored a potential January move for the Senegal international, who could add energy and defensive ability to the midfield.

Aleksandar Stanković has also been mentioned as a possible option, although any move would depend on his situation at Inter Milan.

The important thing, though, is that Liverpool shouldn’t simply sign the biggest name available.

They need somebody who fits what Iraola wants to do.

A midfielder who can defend transitions, win duels, cover ground and make sensible decisions under pressure would be a valuable addition.

If that player can also move the ball forward quickly, even better.

The priority should be finding the right profile, not just another expensive signing.

I’m not convinced one signing fixes everything

I do want Liverpool to strengthen at No. 6, but I wouldn’t pretend that one new midfielder would suddenly solve every problem.

The team still needs to improve its combinations, movement and understanding under Iraola.

The manager himself has previously stressed the importance of getting Liverpool to function collectively, explaining that when the team isn’t well-drilled, individual players can end up looking worse than they really are.

That is worth remembering.

A new midfielder might provide better protection, but the whole team still needs to understand when to press, when to recover and how to cover one another.

And I wouldn’t want Liverpool to spend a fortune on a player who doesn’t suit the system simply because supporters have been asking for a defensive midfielder.

Get the recruitment right, though, and this could be a signing that improves several positions at once.

January could be a defining moment

I don’t expect Liverpool to fix every weakness in one transfer window.

But if Iraola really does see the No. 6 position as his biggest tactical priority, I hope the club listens.

Liverpool have exciting attacking players. There is potential in the defence, too, with Jérémy Jacquet continuing to develop and Ronald Araújo offering versatility.

What I want to see now is a midfield that can bring those strengths together.

A team that can attack without leaving itself exposed.

A team that can press aggressively but still recover its shape when the press is beaten.

And a team that gives Wirtz, Szoboszlai and the forwards the freedom to influence games without constantly worrying about what happens behind them.

That’s why this report interests me, even if we need to treat it cautiously until there is stronger confirmation.

Liverpool might not need another superstar. They might need the right midfielder to make all the other stars work better together.

And if Iraola believes a new No. 6 is the missing piece, I can certainly understand his thinking.

Now let’s see whether Liverpool’s recruitment team agrees.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Jamie Carragher clearly enjoyed Manchester City’s miserable night against Paris Saint-Germain.

And he didn’t exactly hold back.

City suffered a 4–2 defeat at the Etihad on Wednesday, with PSG racing into a three-goal lead before Erling Haaland’s second-half brace gave the home side some hope. Maghnes Akliouche then restored PSG’s two-goal cushion to seal a memorable victory.

But it wasn’t just the result that caught everyone’s attention.

With Manchester City’s financial case dominating the headlines, the defeat arrived at a particularly uncomfortable moment for the club.

And former Liverpool defender Carragher was ready to make his feelings known.

Carragher delivers a brutal verdict

Carragher’s reported reaction was certainly not subtle.

He claimed Manchester City could influence Premier League referees but could not do the same in the Champions League, before suggesting the team had been exposed against PSG.

He also made the extraordinary prediction that City were “definitely going down”.

Those are explosive comments, particularly given the ongoing fallout from City’s financial case.

However, it is important to separate Carragher’s taunts from established facts. There is no evidence in the match report that Manchester City bribed referees, and the defeat itself does not prove any wrongdoing involving officials.

Still, Carragher’s words capture the strength of feeling surrounding the club at the moment.

PSG exposed City’s weaknesses on the pitch

Whatever anyone thinks of the wider controversy, PSG were outstanding for long stretches of this game.

Désiré Doué opened the scoring before Ousmane Dembélé doubled the advantage just minutes later. Vitinha then made it 3–0, leaving City facing a huge task before half-time.

Haaland’s two goals after the break briefly offered hope of a comeback, but Akliouche’s goal restored PSG’s advantage and ensured the visitors left Manchester with all three points.

It was a damaging result for a City side that had been looking to make a statement in Europe.

Instead, they were left chasing the game against opponents who repeatedly found ways through their defence.

And with the financial controversy providing an unavoidable backdrop, the performance was always going to attract extra scrutiny.

The financial case remains the bigger story

Carragher has been outspoken about Manchester City’s financial case for some time.

Sky Sports reported last week that he believes stripping City of titles won during the period covered by the breaches should form part of any punishment, alongside changes at ownership level. City deny wrongdoing and have challenged the process.

That wider issue is why the PSG defeat has become such a talking point.

For City supporters, the team’s performance on the pitch is one matter; the financial case is another. But for critics like Carragher, the timing of a heavy European defeat has created another opportunity to question the club’s standing.

His suggestion that City are “definitely going down” is a prediction, not a confirmed outcome. The eventual consequences of the financial case will depend on the relevant process and decisions.

Liverpool fans will understand why Carragher is enjoying this

As a Liverpool supporter, I can understand why Carragher’s comments have struck a chord with some fans.

Liverpool spent years competing with City in title races that were decided by the smallest of margins. The 2018–19 and 2021–22 campaigns were particularly painful, with the Reds finishing on 97 and 92 points respectively and still missing out on the Premier League title.

That history makes any developments surrounding City’s financial case especially significant to Liverpool supporters.

But the important point is that a PSG victory does not settle those historical questions. Nor does it decide what sanctions, if any, will ultimately follow from the financial case.

What it does do is add another memorable result to City’s European story — and give their critics plenty to talk about.

Carragher won’t be losing any sleep over City’s reaction

There is little doubt that Carragher’s comments will provoke a response from City fans.

His language was deliberately provocative, and his claims about referees are particularly serious. They should not be treated as fact without credible evidence.

But the wider argument about financial rules, sporting fairness and potential sanctions is not going away.

City have now suffered a 4–2 defeat against PSG, while the debate over their financial case continues.

Carragher has made his position clear, and he is unlikely to soften it any time soon.

For Liverpool supporters, the result was entertaining enough. Carragher’s reaction simply added another layer to an already extraordinary night at the Etihad.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

For once, Liverpool fans have a little bit of hope on the injury front.

Dominik Szoboszlai, Cody Gakpo and Alexander Isak have all missed Liverpool’s last two matches, and losing three important players at the same time is the last thing Andoni Iraola needed.

But ahead of Saturday’s trip to Brentford, the Liverpool manager has refused to rule any of them out.

“We have to wait and see,” was Iraola’s message as Liverpool continue to assess the trio ahead of the weekend.

That is hardly a guarantee that they will be available, but at least the door remains open.

And after the problems Liverpool have had recently, I’ll take that.

Three players Liverpool could really do with

Let’s be honest, these are not three players Liverpool can comfortably afford to lose for long periods.

Szoboszlai has become an important part of Iraola’s midfield. His energy, pressing and willingness to drive forward give Liverpool something different, while his ability to contribute goals makes him even more valuable.

His absence has been particularly frustrating because Liverpool need that intensity in the middle of the pitch. The Reds cannot afford to let matches become too comfortable for their opponents, and Szoboszlai is one of the players who can help set the tempo.

Then there is Gakpo.

I’ve been really pleased with his performances this season, and I was disappointed to hear that he had picked up an ankle injury while away with the Netherlands.

He has looked more confident and direct under Iraola, and his work in the attacking third has become increasingly important. Liverpool need players who can carry the ball, create opportunities and make things happen when matches become difficult.

Isak’s situation is just as important.

Liverpool brought him to Anfield to provide goals, movement and a genuine threat through the middle. He has already shown what he can offer, and having him available would give Iraola another option rather than forcing him to keep reshaping the attack.

Getting even one of these three back would be useful. Getting all three back would be a huge lift.

Iraola is keeping his options open

The encouraging part of the latest update is that Iraola has not closed the door on Saturday.

He explained that the players had not been ready for Wednesday’s Champions League match against LASK, but Liverpool still had another training session before the Brentford game.

The manager wants to see how they respond before making a final decision.

That is sensible.

There is no point rushing somebody back for one match if it risks making an injury worse. Liverpool have a demanding schedule, with Villarreal visiting Anfield in the Champions League just a few days after the Brentford fixture.

I would rather see Iraola make the right decision for the player than gamble on somebody who is not ready.

But if any of the three can train properly and prove they are fit enough, their return would give Liverpool a welcome selection boost.

Liverpool have already shown they can cope

The 6-3 win over LASK was encouraging in attack, particularly after the disappointing defeat to Manchester City.

Bradley Barcola scored a hat-trick, while Jeremie Frimpong and Lewis Koumas also found the net. It was a reminder that Liverpool have other players capable of making an impact when opportunities arrive.

Koumas deserves credit for taking his chance, and Barcola’s performance will have done his confidence a world of good.

However, I would not want Liverpool to become too comfortable with the idea that they can keep losing senior players and simply expect somebody else to step in every time.

The schedule is relentless, and squad depth matters.

Having Isak, Gakpo and Szoboszlai available again would give Iraola more flexibility, more experience and more ways to change a game.

That matters particularly against a Brentford side who will make Liverpool work hard for everything.

Saturday could be a big test

Liverpool travel to Brentford on Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm BST.

The Reds need to build some consistency after the setback against Manchester City, and the LASK victory at least restored some confidence in their attacking play.

But the Premier League is a different challenge.

Liverpool will need to be sharp, organised and prepared for a physical contest. Having more of their first-choice players available would obviously help, especially with another European fixture coming up so quickly afterwards.

Iraola has already spoken about the need to rotate during this busy spell. He knows Liverpool will need everybody to contribute over the coming weeks.

That makes this injury update important, even if it is not yet the definitive good news supporters want.

Fingers crossed for Liverpool

I’m not getting carried away just yet.

“Wait and see” means exactly that. None of us should assume that Szoboszlai, Gakpo or Isak will definitely play against Brentford.

But there is a difference between ruling players out and giving them a chance to prove themselves fit.

For now, Liverpool still have that chance.

Hopefully, the final training session brings some positive signs and Iraola has a few more options when he names his squad.

Liverpool need their best players available, and these three would make a real difference.

Fingers crossed that at least one of them is ready to return on Saturday.

And if all three make it? That would be a very welcome boost indeed.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I was really hoping we would be seeing Giovanni Leoni back training with Liverpool by now.

It felt as though we were finally getting close to the moment when we could start looking forward to seeing him in a Liverpool shirt again, properly competing for a place in Andoni Iraola’s defence.

Unfortunately, that wait is going to be a little longer.

Iraola has confirmed that Leoni’s return to first-team training has been delayed until the next international break in November, meaning Liverpool have lost around a month compared with the original plan.

But the manager has also explained something important about the injury that has kept the Italian defender out for more than a year.

It was never simply an ACL injury.

And that helps explain why Liverpool are being so careful with his recovery.

“It was a bad injury”

Iraola was honest when discussing Leoni’s situation ahead of Liverpool’s next match.

He explained that, although he had not been at the club when the original injury happened, he had spoken to the medical department and learned that the damage extended beyond the ACL.

As he put it:

“Giovanni’s injury, I wasn’t here but talking to the medical department it wasn’t just an ACL. It was a bad injury, a lot of things around the knee were involved apart from the ACL.”

That is a significant detail.

Leoni suffered the injury during his Liverpool debut against Southampton in September 2025, shortly after arriving from Parma.

For a young defender who had just taken such a huge step in his career, it was a devastating blow.

He has spent the past year working through his rehabilitation at the AXA Training Centre, trying to get himself back to the point where he can train with his teammates again.

And now, just when that moment appeared to be approaching, the timetable has shifted.

I can understand why Liverpool supporters will be disappointed. We have been waiting a long time to see what Leoni can bring to this team.

But knowing that the original injury involved more than the ACL makes the club’s cautious approach easier to understand.

We have lost a month, but rushing him would be worse

Iraola admitted that the delay was frustrating.

“It is probably now going to be the next international break when he returns to first team football, so we have lost one month in the process.”

That is not what anybody wanted to hear.

The plan had been for Leoni to rejoin group training during the recent international break. Instead, Liverpool have had to push that target back to November.

However, there is an important distinction here.

Iraola described it as a delay rather than a new setback.

That matters because we should not automatically assume Leoni has suffered another injury. The information available points to his rehabilitation taking longer than anticipated, rather than confirmation of a fresh injury.

The manager also made clear that Leoni needs to feel confident before returning and that the rehabilitation process must be handled carefully.

Liverpool want him to return in a good place and remain available once he is back.

That is exactly the right attitude.

There is no point saving a few weeks now if it means risking a much longer absence later.

Liverpool could have a very good defender on their hands

This is why I am still excited about Leoni.

We have not seen enough of him in a Liverpool shirt to make any grand claims, of course. His debut against Southampton was cut short by the injury, so we are still waiting to discover what he can offer over a sustained period.

But Liverpool clearly saw something they liked when they brought him to Anfield.

He is young, he has plenty of development ahead of him, and the opportunity to learn alongside Virgil van Dijk could be invaluable.

I have previously said that Liverpool could have a brilliant group of centre-backs once everyone is available.

Van Dijk brings experience and leadership. Jérémy Jacquet has made an encouraging start, while Ronald Araújo offers versatility and physicality. Joe Gomez provides another experienced option.

Leoni could eventually become an important part of that picture.

But first, he needs to get back on the training pitch.

And then he needs time to build up his fitness and get used to the demands of football again.

We should not expect him to return after a year out and immediately look like he has never been away.

I would rather Liverpool take their time

I know supporters are desperate to see Leoni back. I am too.

Every time we hear that he is getting closer to a return, it feels as though we are finally approaching the end of a very long wait.

So hearing that we have to wait another month is disappointing.

But I would rather Liverpool take their time than put unnecessary pressure on him.

This is a young player whose first season at Anfield was effectively taken away from him before it had even begun. He deserves the opportunity to return properly, without everybody demanding that he immediately prove himself.

And with Iraola continuing to develop Liverpool’s defensive options, there is no reason to gamble with Leoni’s long-term future.

The November international break is now the target for his return to first-team training. That is not a guarantee of an immediate competitive appearance, but it gives us something to look forward to.

The priority has to be getting him back once he is genuinely ready.

I still cannot wait to see him play

I have not changed my mind about Leoni.

I still think Liverpool could have a very good defender on their hands, and I am looking forward to seeing him get a proper opportunity at Anfield.

This delay is frustrating, particularly after such a long absence, but it is not a reason to write him off.

If anything, Iraola’s comments remind us that we should not underestimate the seriousness of what Leoni has been recovering from.

He has had to deal with much more than a straightforward ACL injury, and that makes patience even more important.

So, yes, I am disappointed that we have lost another month.

But I am not going to complain about Liverpool being careful with a young player’s future.

Get him fit. Get him confident. Then let him show us what he can do.

Giovanni Leoni has already waited long enough.

Let’s make sure that when he finally returns, he has the best possible chance of staying there.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I’m really glad Liverpool kept Cody Gakpo this summer.

And now Steven Gerrard has explained exactly why I think it was the right decision.

There was a time when I wasn’t entirely convinced about Gakpo. Last season, he could look frustrating, his performances lacked consistency, and I wondered whether Liverpool might be better off moving him on.

I’m happy to admit that my opinion has changed.

Gakpo has looked a different player under Andoni Iraola, and with Liverpool facing a demanding season, keeping him could prove to be one of the club’s most important decisions.

Gerrard clearly feels the same way.

Speaking to Adebayo Akinfenwa on the Beast Mode On podcast, the Liverpool legend explained why retaining Gakpo was so important.

“I think it was critical that we kept Cody Gakpo. He’s an important part of the squad and hopefully he can keep delivering because if he can bring that consistency over the course of a season, I’m really looking forward to watching him.”

I think Gerrard has got this spot on.

Liverpool needed to keep him

There was plenty of uncertainty surrounding Gakpo during the summer.

Manchester City and Tottenham were both interested in signing him, with reports suggesting Liverpool could have considered a significant offer.

Ultimately, he stayed at Anfield.

And looking at Liverpool’s attacking options, I think that was the right call.

Hugo Ekitike’s Achilles injury has complicated the picture, while Alexander Isak is another forward Liverpool need to manage carefully. Gakpo’s ability to play through the middle as well as from the left gives Iraola valuable flexibility.

Gerrard made that point himself, explaining that Liverpool had limited natural centre-forward options following Ekitike’s injury and that keeping Gakpo was therefore critical.

That’s the thing about building a squad capable of competing across several competitions.

You need more than a strong starting eleven.

You need players who can step into different roles, cover for injuries and give the manager options when the fixtures start piling up.

Gakpo can do that.

And if Liverpool had sold him, replacing his goals, movement and versatility would not have been straightforward.

I’m seeing a different Gakpo this season

This is where my opinion has changed most.

Last season, I sometimes felt Gakpo was trying too hard to make things happen. He could look short of confidence, and there were occasions when I wanted him to be more direct.

Recently, though, I’ve liked what I’ve seen.

He’s looked more confident, more aggressive and more willing to take defenders on. He’s also been linking up well with the players around him, which is particularly important as Liverpool try to get more out of their expensive attacking unit.

I don’t think he’s suddenly become the finished article. There are still things he can improve, and Gerrard’s comments make that clear.

But I’m encouraged.

Gakpo looks like a player who has rediscovered some belief in himself.

And when a forward has that confidence, you start to see the qualities that made Liverpool sign him from PSV Eindhoven in the first place.

Gerrard has identified the next challenge

The most important part of Gerrard’s comments isn’t simply that Liverpool were right to keep Gakpo.

It’s his emphasis on consistency.

Gakpo has shown what he can do in individual matches and periods of good form. The challenge now is producing those performances regularly across an entire season.

That’s what separates a useful squad player from somebody who becomes genuinely indispensable.

Liverpool need Gakpo to contribute goals, create chances and give defenders problems, even when the team isn’t playing particularly well.

They also need him to remain available.

With injuries already affecting the forward line, losing another attacker would leave Iraola with difficult decisions to make.

Gerrard acknowledged that Gakpo has a minor issue at the moment, but stressed how much Liverpool will need him.

Hopefully, it’s nothing serious and he can return soon.

Because Liverpool need him.

Iraola could get even more out of him

I also think Gakpo could benefit enormously as Iraola continues to shape this team.

The manager has spoken positively about his relationship with the Dutchman and his performances during pre-season.

That relationship matters.

Gakpo is experienced enough to know what is expected at Liverpool, but he is still at an age where he can develop further. If Iraola can give him a clear role and build a strong understanding between him, Isak and Florian Wirtz, Liverpool could have a very dangerous attack.

I’m particularly interested in how Gakpo combines with Isak.

The two offer different qualities, and getting them working together consistently could make a real difference to Liverpool’s attacking play.

That’s another reason I wouldn’t have wanted Gakpo sold.

You don’t always need another expensive signing. Sometimes you need to get the best out of the players you’ve already got.

I’m glad Liverpool kept him

I’ll be honest: if you’d asked me last season whether Gakpo should be sold, I might have entertained the idea.

Now, I’m glad Liverpool kept him.

Gerrard’s comments have reinforced something I’ve been thinking for a while. Gakpo has the ability, the experience and the versatility to be a very important player for this squad.

But the next step is consistency.

He needs to keep delivering when Liverpool need him, rather than producing a good run of form and then disappearing from games.

If he can do that, keeping him could prove to be a very smart decision indeed.

Steven Gerrard believes Liverpool were right to keep Cody Gakpo. Having seen the improvement myself, I’m inclined to agree with him.

Now I want to see Gakpo turn that promise into a full season of performances Liverpool can rely on.

Because if he does, Liverpool supporters might look back on the summer and realise just how important it was that he stayed.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

Just six months ago, Lewis Koumas was playing in the Championship. Now he’s scoring in the Champions League for Liverpool.

I absolutely love stories like this.

In modern football, we’re constantly talking about transfer fees, superstar signings and how much clubs have to spend to improve their squads. But sometimes the moments that mean the most involve a young player who has worked his way through the system and finally gets his chance on the biggest stage.

That’s exactly why Koumas’s goal against LASK on Wednesday night felt so special.

Liverpool won 6-3 in Austria, with Bradley Barcola scoring a hat-trick, but there was something particularly satisfying about seeing Koumas get on the scoresheet.

This is the club he joined at just 11 years old.

And now he’s scoring Champions League goals for the first team.

You can’t help but smile at that.

From Birmingham and Hull to a Liverpool European night

Koumas hasn’t taken the easy route to get here.

After making his senior Liverpool debut, he went out on loan to Stoke City, gaining valuable experience in the Championship. He then spent time at Birmingham City before moving to Hull City in January 2026, helping the Tigers earn promotion to the Premier League. Liverpool’s official profile records those spells as part of his development before his return to Anfield. <Entity value=”Liverpool FC” category=”sports_team” disambig=”English football club”/>’s official profile confirms he joined the academy from Tranmere Rovers at under-11 level.

Those loans were important.

Playing regular senior football is very different from playing academy matches. You have to cope with physical defenders, demanding crowds, difficult away grounds and the pressure of getting results when every point matters.

Koumas has experienced that side of the game.

He has had to be patient, keep working and wait for the opportunity to show Liverpool what he can do.

And now look where he is.

A Champions League appearance. A goal. A moment he will remember for the rest of his career.

That’s a journey worth celebrating.

That goal clearly meant something to him

Koumas had already seen two efforts ruled out for offside before finally getting his moment against LASK.

When the chance came, he took it, finishing in the 72nd minute after getting on the end of Jeremie Frimpong’s cross. He then raced towards the travelling supporters and kissed the Liverpool badge.

I thought that celebration said plenty.

This wasn’t just another goal to add to his statistics.

It was his first Champions League goal for the club he grew up with, after years of working his way through the academy and gaining experience away from Anfield.

You could see how much it meant to him.

And I don’t think Liverpool supporters should underestimate what a moment like that can do for a young player’s confidence.

Koumas now knows he can contribute on this stage. He has experienced the occasion, scored in the competition and given himself a memory he will never forget.

That doesn’t guarantee he’ll suddenly become a regular starter, but it gives him something real to build on.

Liverpool’s academy still matters

This is another reason I enjoyed seeing Koumas score.

Liverpool have spent heavily to improve the first team, and supporters naturally get excited about the likes of Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak and Bradley Barcola.

But the academy remains an important part of the club’s identity.

There is something different about watching a player who has spent years at Liverpool finally make an impact for the senior side.

You know the journey hasn’t happened overnight.

Koumas joined at 11. He worked through the youth teams, made his senior debut and then went out to gain experience elsewhere. Now he’s back, competing for opportunities under Andoni Iraola and scoring in Europe.

That is what a development pathway should look like.

Not every academy player will make it at Liverpool, of course. The standard is incredibly high, and the club has to make difficult decisions about who is ready.

But when one of them breaks through, we should enjoy it.

Especially when the player clearly cares so much about representing the club.

What happens next?

I’m not going to get carried away and claim Koumas is suddenly ready to lead Liverpool’s attack every week.

He still has plenty to prove, and regular opportunities in the Premier League will be the next challenge.

But I do think this goal could be important for him.

Liverpool have a demanding schedule, and Iraola needs players who can come into the team, work hard and make an impact when called upon.

Koumas has given his manager another reason to trust him.

He has shown that he can take an opportunity, and his experience in the Championship means he has already had to learn how to handle senior football away from the comforts of the academy.

Now he needs to keep pushing.

More minutes. More confidence. More chances to show what he can do.

If he gets those opportunities, Liverpool might discover that they have another useful homegrown option ready to develop.

And that would be a lovely outcome.

This is why I love seeing young Reds make it

For me, the best part of this story isn’t simply that Koumas scored a goal in a 6-3 win.

It’s the journey behind it.

Six months ago, he was playing in the Championship. Now he’s celebrating a Champions League goal in a Liverpool shirt, in front of the travelling supporters, for the club he joined as a child.

Football careers can change quickly, but that doesn’t mean the hard work behind those moments should be forgotten.

Koumas has earned the right to enjoy this one.

And I hope he gets plenty more opportunities to make memories like it.

From the academy at 11 to the Champions League at 21.

That’s a special journey.

And as a Liverpool supporter, I’m absolutely delighted for him.

More of this, please.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

I have to admit, I really enjoyed seeing Kostas Tsimikas have his moment against LASK.

Liverpool won 6–3 in Austria, Bradley Barcola grabbed a hat-trick and Lewis Koumas got himself on the scoresheet, but there was another story I really liked.

Tsimikas captained Liverpool in the Champions League and provided two assists.

For a player who has spent much of his Liverpool career fighting for opportunities, that must have felt pretty special.

And his message afterwards made it even better.

“Little Kostas, we made it happen, kid”

Tsimikas took to Instagram after the victory and reflected on what the night meant to him.

He wrote:

“Representing my dream club, on a Champions League night, as a captain, with a win and some assists serving?!

“Little Kostas, we made it happen kid

“Never stop dreaming and believing guys. Dreams can come true. I made some of mine come true today and it feels great.

“I am so grateful.”

I genuinely love that.

Behind every professional footballer is a young kid who dreamed of playing at the highest level. Tsimikas was able to look back at that younger version of himself and say that he had made it.

Playing for Liverpool is special enough. Doing it in the Champions League is another thing entirely.

But captaining the side as well, then helping set up two goals? That is a night he will remember for a long time.

He made his opportunity count

Tsimikas wasn’t simply handed the armband for a photograph.

He had a proper contribution to make.

His delivery from a corner was met by Ronald Araújo, who headed Liverpool into the lead in the 22nd minute. After the break, Tsimikas supplied the assist for Jeremie Frimpong to make it 4–0.

Two assists, a captain’s performance and a 6–3 Champions League victory.

Not a bad evening’s work.

It was also a reminder that Liverpool have useful players beyond the names who usually dominate the headlines. With Virgil van Dijk starting on the bench, Tsimikas got the chance to lead the team and showed that he could make an impact when selected.

Of course, the three goals Liverpool conceded will need attention. Nobody should pretend the defensive side of the performance was perfect.

But that shouldn’t take anything away from Tsimikas’ personal achievement.

The Greek Scouser deserves his moment

Tsimikas has always seemed to understand what it means to play for Liverpool.

He might not always be first choice, and he has had to accept that opportunities can be limited. But nights like this show why having players who remain ready to contribute is important.

When the opportunity arrived, he took it.

And I think that’s what makes his Instagram message so relatable. He wasn’t boasting about his performance or making a big statement about his future. He was simply reflecting on a moment he had dreamed about as a child.

There is something quite refreshing about that.

Footballers can sometimes seem so far removed from supporters, but the excitement in his words feels genuine. He knows how fortunate he is to represent Liverpool, and he clearly isn’t taking the experience for granted.

“Never stop dreaming and believing.”

That’s the line that stood out to me most.

It’s easy to forget what a huge achievement it is to reach the top level of football, especially when we spend our time discussing transfers, wages, selection decisions and performances.

For Tsimikas, this was a chance to enjoy the journey.

And I’m glad he did.

What happens next?

I’m not suggesting one good night suddenly changes Liverpool’s left-back pecking order. Milos Kerkez remains an important option for Andoni Iraola, and Tsimikas will still have to compete for his opportunities.

But performances like this certainly help his case.

He has shown that he can provide quality from set pieces, contribute going forward and step into a leadership role when required.

Liverpool need a squad in which players can come in and make a difference. With the number of games coming up, that depth could prove valuable.

And if Tsimikas can build on this performance, he’ll give Iraola another option to consider.

For now, though, I think the player deserves to enjoy the moment.

Two assists. The captain’s armband. A Champions League victory.

And a message to his younger self that says it all.

Little Kostas really did make it happen.

I’m delighted for him. Nights like this are what football is all about.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

There are goals you celebrate because they win you a game. Then there are goals that mean something a little bit different.

For Lewis Koumas, scoring for Liverpool in the Champions League was clearly one of those moments.

After finding the net in Liverpool’s 6-3 victory over LASK, the young Welsh forward explained what was going through his mind as he raced towards the supporters.

“It was just that I’ve realised I’ve scored in the Champions League. It was pretty crazy! I’ve just run off and spent the moment with them.”

I absolutely love that.

Because you could see what it meant to him. This wasn’t just another goal in another competition. It was Koumas scoring for Liverpool on one of European football’s biggest stages, and he wanted to share that moment with the fans who had travelled to Austria.

Sometimes a player’s reaction tells you more than any interview could.

You could see how much it meant to him

Koumas had already found the net twice against LASK, only for both efforts to be ruled out for offside.

That could easily have become a frustrating evening for a young forward. He was getting into promising positions, but the goal simply wouldn’t count.

Instead, he kept going.

Eventually, Jeremie Frimpong delivered another dangerous ball from the right, and Koumas made the most of his opportunity, getting his finish on target and sending it through the goalkeeper’s legs.

This time, there was no offside flag to spoil the moment.

Liverpool’s sixth goal was his first in the Champions League, and he celebrated by racing towards the away supporters. As he explained afterwards, he had suddenly realised what he had just achieved.

I think every Liverpool supporter can understand that feeling.

Imagine being a young player, working your way through the game and finally getting the chance to score for your club in Europe. Then imagine looking up and seeing the Liverpool supporters celebrating with you.

No wonder he wanted to share it with them.

Koumas took his opportunity

The goal was also important because Koumas was given a chance to start against LASK, with Liverpool managing their squad after the defeat to Manchester City.

He had already made his first Premier League start against City, and now he had started a Champions League match too.

That’s a significant few days for the 21-year-old.

He wasn’t simply making up the numbers in Austria. He was involved in a Liverpool side that scored six goals, and he also provided the lay-off for Bradley Barcola’s opening goal.

Barcola went on to score a hat-trick, while Ronald Araújo and Frimpong also found the net. Liverpool’s attack finally had an evening where several players enjoyed themselves, and Koumas played his part.

For me, that’s the encouraging part.

Koumas is still developing, and nobody should expect him to suddenly become a regular starter. But these are exactly the experiences that can help a young player grow.

He has had minutes, responsibility and now a Champions League goal to remember.

The reaction is what I will remember

I know supporters will rightly be talking about Barcola’s hat-trick. After the pressure he had been under following a quiet start, that was a massive confidence boost.

But Koumas’s celebration deserves attention too.

There was something wonderfully genuine about it. He didn’t appear to be thinking about headlines or personal milestones. He had just scored for Liverpool in the Champions League, and his immediate instinct was to run towards the fans.

His own words summed it up perfectly: he realised what he had done, and he wanted to enjoy the moment with them.

That’s what football is supposed to be about.

And it is another reminder that, for all the money involved in the modern game, these moments still matter enormously to the players living them.

Now Koumas needs to build on it

I don’t want to get carried away after one goal, but I do want to see what happens next.

Koumas has now had a taste of starting for Liverpool in the Premier League and the Champions League. The challenge is to keep improving, take his opportunities and make himself useful to Andoni Iraola.

He has already shown that he can contribute from wide attacking positions, and his willingness to work and keep making runs gives Liverpool something to build on.

The manager will have to decide how quickly he can bring Koumas into the picture more regularly. There is no need to rush him, but there is every reason to keep giving him opportunities when he earns them.

And if he keeps taking those opportunities, nights like this could become an important part of his development.

For now, though, he has a moment he will never forget.

Lewis Koumas has scored for Liverpool in the Champions League.

He ran towards the supporters because he wanted to share it with them. And when he explained why, you could understand exactly what was going through his mind.

That is why I love football.

The goals matter, the results matter, and the trophies matter. But every so often, a young player reminds you that wearing that Liverpool shirt still means something very special.

Enjoy the moment, Lewis. You’ve earned it.

And hopefully, there are plenty more to come.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool badly needed a response after the disappointment against Manchester City, and Andoni Iraola’s side certainly delivered one in Austria.

A 6-3 Champions League victory over LASK gave Liverpool plenty to celebrate, with Bradley Barcola scoring his first goals for the club, completing a hat-trick and Lewis Koumas finally getting the goal his performance deserved.

Ronald Araújo and Jeremie Frimpong also found the net as Liverpool produced some excellent attacking football, particularly during a dominant first half.

But this was not entirely straightforward. After building a four-goal lead, Liverpool allowed LASK back into the game with three second-half goals of their own.

The result was excellent. The attacking display was encouraging. The defensive lapses, however, will give Iraola something to think about.

Liverpool take control after a lively start

Iraola made several changes for the trip to Austria, with Virgil van Dijk rested. Kostas Tsimikas captained the side, while academy talents Koumas and Rio Ngumoha were handed opportunities in attack.

Liverpool were not immediately comfortable. LASK showed some early ambition, and Kasper Jorgensen fired over after the hosts threatened from a corner.

Koumas had an opportunity of his own in the opening minutes, beating the offside trap and rounding the goalkeeper, but he was forced wide and could not find the finish.

Florian Wirtz then began to show his quality, cutting between defenders before forcing a save from LASK goalkeeper Jungwirth.

Liverpool were growing into the game, and the breakthrough arrived in the 22nd minute.

Tsimikas delivered a corner and Araújo rose powerfully to head Liverpool into the lead. The defender had already threatened from a set piece, and this time he made no mistake.

Two minutes later, Liverpool doubled their advantage.

Ngumoha did brilliantly down the byline, twisting and turning past his marker before the ball fell to Koumas. The Welsh forward showed good composure to turn away from his defender and lay the ball into Barcola’s path.

The Frenchman made no mistake, calmly finishing from close range to score his first goal for Liverpool.

That must have been a huge relief for Barcola, who had been waiting for his first goal since arriving at Anfield.

And he was only getting started.

Wirtz and Barcola combine for a third

Liverpool were now playing with real confidence.

Wirtz was finding pockets of space, Ngumoha was causing problems out wide and Koumas was working hard through the middle.

Ryan Gravenberch came close to adding a third when a superb Liverpool move ended with the Dutchman striking the base of the post.

Koumas then thought he had scored after a lovely turn and composed finish, only for the offside flag to deny him.

Liverpool did not have to wait long for another goal, though.

In the 37th minute, Wirtz produced a wonderful pass through the LASK defence. Barcola took the ball in his stride and fired low into the far corner.

Liverpool were 3-0 up, and Barcola had two goals to his name.

It was exactly the sort of performance Wirtz needed after the criticism that followed the Manchester City defeat. His vision and ability to unlock a defence were clear, while Barcola finally looked like the confident, dangerous forward Liverpool hoped they had signed.

Ngumoha also deserves credit for an excellent first-half display, while Koumas offered energy and movement through the middle.

Liverpool went into the break three goals ahead and firmly in control.

Frimpong adds a fourth — then Liverpool lose their way

Liverpool picked up where they left off after half-time.

Just six minutes into the second half, Tsimikas got forward and delivered a cross towards the back post. Frimpong timed his jump superbly and powered a header down and into the net.

For a player whose place in the starting side has been under pressure, it was a valuable moment.

At 4-0, Liverpool looked set for a comfortable evening.

But football can change quickly, and Liverpool’s concentration began to slip.

LASK had already threatened through Adeniran, and Alisson was forced into an excellent save to deny Danek shortly before the hosts finally scored.

In the 63rd minute, substitute Robert Ljubicic found space inside the penalty area and beat Alisson at the near post.

It was a disappointing goal to concede, particularly with Liverpool having looked so comfortable.

Thankfully, Barcola had no intention of letting the hosts spoil his night.

Barcola completes his hat-trick

Three minutes after LASK pulled one back, Liverpool restored their four-goal advantage.

Ngumoha played a brilliant ball inside the LASK defence for Frimpong, who raced forward before cutting the ball back across the box.

Barcola was waiting at the far post and had the simple task of tapping into an open goal.

Hat-trick. First Liverpool goals. A night to remember.

After the difficult start to his Liverpool career, this was precisely the kind of performance Barcola needed.

It would be wrong to suggest that one match suddenly solves every problem, especially against opposition Liverpool were expected to beat. But confidence matters, and scoring three times should give the Frenchman a real lift.

Liverpool were now 5-1 ahead, and the contest should have been settled.

Instead, the defensive problems continued.

Koumas finally gets the goal he deserves

Koumas had already seen two efforts ruled out for offside, but he refused to stop making runs behind the LASK defence.

In the 72nd minute, he finally got his reward.

Frimpong, who was having an excellent evening going forward, delivered a low cross into the area. Koumas took his finish early, wrong-footing the goalkeeper and making it 6-1.

The celebrations said everything.

The young Welsh forward had worked tirelessly, created Barcola’s first goal and kept looking for opportunities even after his earlier efforts were ruled out.

For a Liverpool academy player trying to establish himself in the first team, this was a significant moment.

Iraola had trusted him to lead the attack in a Champions League match, and Koumas responded with a goal and a performance full of energy.

He will know that one game does not guarantee a regular place, but he has certainly given his manager something to consider.

LASK score twice more to make it uncomfortable

Unfortunately, Liverpool were not finished giving their supporters a few nervous moments.

LASK scored again in the 74th minute when Florian Flecker arrived at the far post to meet a cross from Yvan Dibango with a diving header.

Three minutes later, Flecker struck again, finishing another Dibango delivery across goal to make it 6-3.

Liverpool’s four-goal cushion had been cut to three, and the closing stages became far less comfortable than they should have been.

There was no serious danger of Liverpool throwing away the victory, but conceding three goals after being so dominant is not something Iraola will want to see repeated.

The attacking quality was obvious. The defensive concentration was not always there.

Liverpool need to learn to manage games better when they have established such a commanding lead.

My verdict: a brilliant response, but not a perfect night

There is plenty for Liverpool supporters to enjoy here.

Barcola finally has his first Liverpool goals, and he has gone straight from waiting for his breakthrough to scoring a hat-trick.

Wirtz looked creative and dangerous, providing the kind of pass that makes you understand why Liverpool invested so heavily in him.

Ngumoha was lively, Koumas deserved his goal, and Frimpong contributed a goal and an assist. Araújo also made his mark with a powerful header.

Those are some significant positives, especially after the disappointment of the Manchester City defeat.

But I do not want to ignore the three goals Liverpool conceded. The scoreline looks fantastic, yet the defensive performance after the fourth goal was nowhere near the standard Iraola will demand.

The manager rotated his team and gave young players an opportunity, and several of them took it. That is encouraging. The next step is making sure the whole side can maintain its discipline when the game appears to be won.

Liverpool needed a response, and they got one.

Barcola has his confidence-boosting hat-trick. Koumas has made a strong case for more opportunities. Wirtz has shown flashes of the creativity Liverpool have been waiting to see.

There is plenty to build on.

Now Liverpool need to take that attacking confidence into their next match without bringing the defensive mistakes with them.

Six goals away from home in Europe is an excellent night’s work. Conceding three is the reminder that there is still work to do.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)