The Kopite View

Ever since Fabinho departed Anfield, Liverpool have been searching for the right balance in midfield.

The Brazilian’s presence as a true defensive midfielder gave the Reds structure, protection, and control. His ability to break up play, read danger early, and distribute calmly allowed Liverpool’s attacking players to flourish.

Since his exit, that specialist role has never quite felt fully replaced.

But could Adam Wharton be the answer?

The Fabinho Void

Fabinho wasn’t just a holding midfielder — he was the anchor.

He:

Screened the back four Won second balls Controlled tempo Allowed full-backs to attack freely

Without that natural No.6, Liverpool have often looked slightly more open in transition. While tactical tweaks have helped, the squad still lacks a pure defensive midfielder with composure and intelligence at the base.

That’s where Adam Wharton enters the conversation.

Why Wharton Fits the Profile

Wharton has impressed with his maturity, positional awareness, and passing range. For a young midfielder, he shows:

Excellent defensive reading of the game Calmness under pressure Progressive passing ability Tactical discipline

He isn’t just a destroyer — he’s a controller.

In many ways, that’s exactly what Liverpool have been missing. A player who can both protect the defence and dictate the rhythm from deep.

A Long-Term Solution?

At his age, Wharton wouldn’t just be a short-term fix — he could become the long-term foundation of Liverpool’s midfield rebuild.

Under Arne Slot, who values structure and intelligent positioning, Wharton’s style looks well suited to the system. Slot wants control. He wants stability. He wants the team compact and disciplined.

A true holding midfielder provides that platform.

Would He Be the Missing Piece?

Liverpool’s midfield has energy and creativity. What it has occasionally lacked is that quiet controller who makes everything else function smoothly.

Fabinho provided it for years.

The question now is whether Adam Wharton could grow into that same role — and finally solve the defensive midfield puzzle that has lingered since Fabinho’s departure.

If Liverpool are serious about restoring midfield balance, this could be a move that makes perfect sense.

— Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool’s season is entering a crucial phase, and one thing is clear: injury luck will play a huge role in how successful they are in the final months.

With long-term injuries already affecting Leoni and Bradley, the Reds are operating with a relatively small squad. Key areas such as central defence, right-back, midfield, and the forward line have limited options, making every match a careful balancing act.

Defensive Concerns

Central defence has been stretched all season. Injuries have forced Slot to experiment with combinations, and any further absences could force less experienced players into the spotlight. Right-back options are similarly thin, with Curtis Jones stepping in at times — a solution that works in short bursts, but isn’t sustainable for the long term.

Midfield and Attack

Liverpool’s midfield has depth concerns as well. With injuries in central areas and the need to rotate players due to fatigue, Slot has little margin for error. The forward line also relies on a small group of players, meaning any injury could impact goal output significantly.

Recruitment Issues

Slot hasn’t been helped by recruitment either. Limited summer signings to strengthen key positions have left the squad short after splashing out on Wirtz, Isak and Ekitike. No winter signings mean the squad lacks cover in key areas, forcing him to make compromises or rely on youth more than he might prefer. The combination of injuries and a small squad makes the margins even finer — one long-term injury in a critical position could have serious consequences.

The Need for Luck

Slot has shown flexibility and tactical awareness, but even the best manager can’t cover every injury scenario. For Liverpool to finish the season strongly, they will need:

Players returning from injury at the right time No new long-term absences Youth stepping up when needed

Essentially, the Reds’ path to a successful end of the season is heavily dependent on staying healthy — a thin margin for error for a club competing on multiple fronts.

Liverpool fans will be hoping their injury woes ease, recruitment limitations don’t bite, and Slot’s squad can maintain momentum until the final whistle of the season.

— Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool are reportedly looking to strengthen their central defence this summer, and one name on their radar is Murillo Santiago Costa of Nottingham Forest.

The Reds are set to get a closer look at the talented defender next weekend, when Liverpool travel to face Forest in the Premier League. Costa has impressed during his time at Forest with his composure on the ball, defensive awareness, and ability to play out from the back — qualities that fit well with Liverpool’s style under Arne Slot.

Premier League Rivals Also Interested

Chelsea and other Premier League sides are also showing keen interest in Costa, meaning Liverpool could face stiff competition if they decide to pursue him.

The club’s urgency to bolster central defence has increased amid uncertainty over Ibrahima Konaté’s future. Should Konaté leave in the summer, Slot will need reinforcements to maintain the defensive stability that has been key to Liverpool’s recent performances.

Next Weekend: A Closer Look

Liverpool’s upcoming clash at Forest provides the perfect opportunity to assess Costa firsthand. Scouts and analysts will be watching his positioning, tackling, and ability to cope against Liverpool’s pace and movement in attack.

With a summer transfer window ahead, the race for Costa’s signature promises to be intriguing, and how Liverpool act could signal their intentions for both squad depth and defensive stability.

— Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool’s reputation for developing elite young talent is once again being tested — this time with highly rated 15-year-old Joshua Abe.

The teenage prospect has yet to accept Liverpool’s scholarship offer, and his situation is now being closely monitored by several top clubs across Europe. With Abe regarded as one of the club’s brightest academy prospects, interest is growing from elite sides who could potentially offer greater financial incentives.

For Liverpool, however, the selling point isn’t just money — it’s pathway.

A Clearer Route to the First Team?

Liverpool believe they can offer Abe something just as valuable as financial rewards: opportunity.

The youngster has already been involved in training sessions with the first team, a clear sign of how highly he is rated internally. Exposure at that level at just 15 years old speaks volumes about his potential and the club’s belief in him.

Anfield has, in recent years, proven to be fertile ground for young players willing to work hard and seize their chance. Liverpool’s academy system remains one of the most respected in England, and the pathway from youth ranks to senior football is clearly mapped out.

But will that be enough?

Competing With Europe’s Elite

Other top clubs can offer larger financial packages and long-term guarantees that are difficult to ignore for a player so early in his career. Modern football is increasingly competitive when it comes to securing the best young talent, and scholarship decisions can shape an entire career.

Liverpool’s challenge is convincing Abe that development and opportunity outweigh immediate riches.

Could Slot’s Approach Be a Factor?

There’s another layer to this situation.

While Liverpool pride themselves on youth development, some supporters have questioned Arne Slot’s reluctance to use younger players consistently in competitive matches this season.

Opportunities for academy prospects have been limited, with Slot often favouring experienced options in tight games. From a managerial perspective, that caution is understandable — results matter. But from a young player’s viewpoint, it may raise questions about how quickly chances will truly arrive.

If Abe and his representatives are weighing up his long-term pathway, they will be assessing not just academy promises — but real first-team opportunities.

A Crucial Decision Ahead

Joshua Abe’s decision could be a significant one for both player and club. Liverpool remain hopeful that their development structure, combined with early exposure to first-team training, will convince him to stay.

But in modern football, talent rarely waits — and neither do rival clubs.

The coming weeks could prove pivotal in determining whether Liverpool retain one of their most exciting young prospects — or whether another European giant swoops in with a more tempting offer.

For now, all eyes remain on Abe’s next move.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

With a full week on the training ground, Arne Slot has something he hasn’t always enjoyed this season — time.

Liverpool head to Nottingham Forest next, a side who have just appointed yet another new manager, and that unpredictability makes preparation both easier and harder. Easier because Slot can focus purely on Liverpool’s structure. Harder because Forest may change shape, intensity, or approach under new leadership.

The big question for fans now is simple: does Slot stick with the side that beat Brighton, or does he tweak things again?

Will Curtis Jones Stay at Right-Back?

Curtis Jones filling in at right-back against Brighton raised eyebrows — but it worked.

Jones offered:

Calmness in possession Tactical intelligence The ability to drift inside and overload midfield

Slot clearly values technical control from wide areas, and Jones gives him that. Against Forest, especially away from home, ball retention could be crucial.

But does Slot risk sticking with an unconventional solution?

Could Szoboszlai Drop Back?

Another option is pushing Dominik Szoboszlai deeper or even into a wider role to provide energy and structure. Szoboszlai has the engine and tactical discipline to adapt, and Slot may want more physical presence if Forest come out aggressively under their new manager.

However, moving Szoboszlai deeper sacrifices his attacking influence — and Liverpool need his forward thrust.

Robertson or Kerkez?

The left-back situation is equally interesting.

Milos Kerkez has been keeping Andy Robertson out of the side recently with a series of strong performances. His energy, forward runs, and attacking intent have added real dynamism down the left, and he’s looked increasingly comfortable in Slot’s system.

But this might be the kind of game where experience counts.

Robertson’s leadership, defensive awareness, and big-game temperament could prove valuable against a Forest side riding the emotion of a new managerial appointment. Slot may feel the experienced Scot offers more defensive security in what could be an unpredictable encounter.

Does he reward Kerkez’s form, or does he trust Robertson’s experience?

Stick or Twist?

Momentum matters.

Liverpool were impressive against Brighton, and managers often resist changing a winning formula. But Forest’s new-manager bounce factor adds uncertainty. Slot may decide that stability is key — or he may anticipate a tactical shift and adjust accordingly.

Personally, I think he keeps the core of the Brighton side intact, but Robertson could come back in for this one. Jones may retain his place if Slot wants technical security, though it wouldn’t be a surprise to see one or two subtle tweaks.

With a full week to prepare, this feels like a test not just of personnel — but of Slot’s tactical instincts.

And the trip to Forest could tell us a lot about how settled Liverpool really are under their new boss.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool fans are bracing themselves for the Champions League last-16 draw, set for February 27, 2026, and the possibilities are mouthwatering — or nerve-wracking. Could the Reds face Atlético Madrid, the tactical nightmare despite a 3–2 win earlier in the competition? Or Galatasaray, the Turkish side that already beat Liverpool 1–0 and just hammered Juventus 5–2? With Club Brugge and Juventus also in the mix, the draw promises high drama, and every fan is wondering: who’s the toughest test for Slot’s side?

Liverpool fans are eagerly awaiting the Champions League last-16 draw on February 27, 2026. With several potential opponents still to be decided, the Reds could face Club Brugge, Atlético Madrid, Juventus, or Galatasaray. Each presents a different challenge, and recent history adds even more intrigue.

1️⃣ Club Brugge — The “Safe” Draw

Belgium’s Club Brugge are arguably the most manageable option:

Strong squad but less experienced at the knockout stages Likely allows Liverpool to dominate possession and control games Ideal for rotating players while focusing on domestic fixtures

For fans, this would feel like a favorable draw — low risk, high chance to progress.

2️⃣ Atlético Madrid — The Tactical Test

Atlético Madrid are arguably the toughest potential opponent despite Liverpool beating them 3–2 earlier in the competition:

Diego Simeone’s side is famous for defensive organisation and counter-attacks Their physicality and tactical discipline make them extremely difficult to break down Away games in Madrid are always hostile and demanding

Even with the earlier victory, Liverpool would need near-perfect performances to overcome Atlético again.

3️⃣ Juventus — A Classic European Tie

If Juventus overturn the Galatasaray deficit, they could face Liverpool:

Italian champions bring experience and European pedigree Liverpool have history against them, which could be psychologically helpful Dangerous if Juventus find form in the second leg

4️⃣ Galatasaray — Momentum and Firepower

Galatasaray’s 5–2 first-leg thrashing of Juventus shows their potential. They also beat Liverpool 1–0 earlier in the competition, reminding fans that this Turkish side can be dangerous:

Confidence and momentum high Dynamic attacking players who thrive on pace and quick transitions Playing in Turkey is always challenging due to passionate home crowds

Galatasaray would be a tricky tie — fast, unpredictable, and with a psychological edge after the earlier win over Liverpool.

⚡ My Take

Safest draw: Club Brugge Most dangerous: Atlético Madrid — even with a prior 3–2 win, Simeone’s tactical masterclass makes them the toughest challenge Dark horse danger: Galatasaray — momentum and home advantage make them unpredictable Middle ground: Juventus — experienced, winnable but still tricky

No matter the draw, the Champions League last 16 will be a true test of Liverpool’s squad depth, tactics, and mental resilience.

— Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool fans have been critical of Cody Gakpo this season, and it’s not hard to see why. After previous campaigns filled with goals and creativity, Gakpo has struggled to find the net this year and frustrated supporters with a pattern many have noticed: his reluctance to go wide and instead consistently cutting inside — often with no end product.

Where the Frustration Comes From

In past seasons, Gakpo was celebrated for scoring and creating opportunities from various positions. This year, however, fans have questioned his decision-making and end product.

Always cutting inside rather than stretching play on the outside Often failing to convert chances into goals or assists Frustratingly, Slot continues to select him, even when alternatives like Florian Wirtz could offer width on the left or Rio Ngumoha could provide a fresh attacking option

The repeated selections, despite underwhelming performances, have left fans scratching their heads.

Brighton Performance Shows Promise

There were signs that Gakpo might be finding his form in the recent match against Brighton:

His header was unfortunately ruled offside — a goal that could have silenced critics A brilliant cross-field pass directly led to Dominik Szoboszlai’s goal Overall, he looked sharper, more decisive, and more willing to contribute in different areas of the pitch

This performance gives fans hope that Gakpo may recapture the form that made him such a vital player in previous seasons, just in time for the crucial end-of-season run.

Looking Ahead

Liverpool fans remain cautious but optimistic. If Gakpo can consistently deliver like he did against Brighton, he could prove a key player in the final months of the season. The question now is whether Slot will continue to rely on him, or start giving Wirtz and Ngumoha more opportunities to bring freshness and width to the team.

For now, supporters can at least be encouraged by flashes of the old Gakpo — a reminder of what he’s capable of when in form.

— Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool will have to wait at least another week before seeing Jeremie Frimpong back in action, as the Dutch full-back continues his recovery from a groin injury.

It’s been a frustrating period for Frimpong, who has struggled to build consistent momentum since joining Liverpool last summer. What many hoped would be an explosive first season has instead been disrupted by injuries, limiting his rhythm and match sharpness.

A Huge Miss on the Right Flank

Frimpong’s biggest weapon is his pace. Few defenders in the league can match his acceleration, and when he’s fully fit, he transforms the right flank into a constant attacking outlet.

His overlapping runs stretch defences His directness forces opponents backwards His recovery speed adds defensive security

Without him, Liverpool lack that natural width and explosive burst on the right side. His ability to turn defence into attack in seconds is something that can’t easily be replicated.

Hoping for Better Fortune

Groin injuries can be tricky, especially for players who rely so heavily on speed and sharp movement. The most important thing now is patience. Rushing him back would risk another setback — something both the player and the club will desperately want to avoid.

After an injury-ravaged first season at Anfield, the hope is that once he returns, Frimpong can finally enjoy a sustained run of games and show exactly why he was brought in.

If Liverpool are to compete on multiple fronts, they’ll need every bit of pace and attacking threat he brings.

The countdown is on — and when he’s back, the right flank should come alive again.

— Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool fans are dreaming of firepower, and this attacking trio — Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak, and Hugo Ekitike — could send shivers down the spine of any defence.

Speed, Skill, and Goals

Wirtz is the engine in midfield, capable of creating space, threading perfect passes, and driving the attack forward. Isak is a striker with composure and clinical finishing — the kind of player defenders hate to mark because he can strike from anywhere. Ekitike brings height, power, and intelligent movement, giving opponents a different type of threat in the box.

Imagine them together on the pitch:

Wirtz pulling defenders out of position Isak making sharp runs behind the backline Ekitike lurking for the crosses and knockdowns

It’s a combination that forces defenders to make impossible choices — and usually, someone ends up exposed.

Why This Trio Could Be Special

Individually, they’re talented. Together, they become unstoppable:

Defences can’t double-mark all three at once Their movement complements each other — speed, strength, and skill Every game becomes unpredictable for the opposition

For Liverpool, or any team lucky enough to field them, this attacking trio could be the nightmare opponents dread.

The chemistry hasn’t been fully tested yet, but the potential? Massive. ⚡

— Jamie (The Kopite View)

Rumours linking Dominik Szoboszlai with a move to Real Madrid have been circulating — and now his agent has spoken.

The message? Calm, measured, and dismissive.

What His Agent Said

Szoboszlai’s representative addressed the speculation directly:

“It’s completely normal for the public, when Dominik is performing like this, to talk about what’s next and if there’s something higher.”

“For us it’s not a topic. We are mid-season; he has a lot of work ahead of him in the Premier League, the FA Cup and the Champions League. He has said many times how important this competition is for him.”

“So at the moment to talk about what will happen in the summer in my opinion is not correct.”

“Not to mention, Liverpool are one of the biggest clubs in the world and Dominik is in a position within the team that has a lot of reserve, so we are not looking outside or elsewhere.”

On the surface, that sounds reassuring.

But in football, things are rarely that simple.

Can We Truly Believe It?

Agents are careful. They rarely shut doors completely — especially when Europe’s elite clubs are mentioned.

Notice what wasn’t said:

No outright “he will never leave.” No long-term commitment mentioned. No dismissal of Real Madrid specifically.

Instead, the focus was on timing — mid-season, competitions ahead, work to be done.

That’s understandable. But it also leaves the future slightly open.

Why Liverpool Must Act Now

If anything, these rumours highlight one thing:

Liverpool must secure Szoboszlai’s long-term future.

He has become central to the team:

Energy in midfield Leadership qualities Goals and creativity Big-game mentality

If Real Madrid or other European giants are circling, the solution isn’t panic — it’s action.

A long-term, improved contract would:

Show Liverpool’s commitment Reflect his importance Send a message to Europe Give fans real reassurance

The Bigger Picture

Liverpool are one of the biggest clubs in the world — and Szoboszlai is thriving. He’s playing Champions League football, competing domestically, and operating in a key role.

There’s no obvious reason for him to leave.

But football moves quickly. Performances like his naturally attract attention.

The question isn’t whether interest exists — it’s whether Liverpool move decisively enough to keep their star man at the heart of the project.

Final Thought

His agent says it’s not a topic.

For now.

But if Szoboszlai continues performing at this level, speculation won’t go away.

Liverpool would be wise to reward him, secure him, and remove any doubt before the summer conversation truly begins.

Because some players aren’t just good — they’re foundational.

And Dominik Szoboszlai is becoming exactly that.

By Jamie | The Kopite View