Liverpool’s decision to explore the right-back market this summer looks increasingly significant.
According to The Athletic, the Reds considered strengthening in the position amid doubts over Jeremie Frimpong’s early displays, with Marco Palestra among the players assessed before he eventually joined Chelsea.
That tells us something important: Liverpool’s concerns over Frimpong weren’t simply created by his performances this season. The club had already identified the position as one that potentially needed strengthening.
Frimpong arrived with an outstanding reputation from Bayer Leverkusen, but there was always going to be an adjustment period. He excelled as an attacking wing-back in Germany, whereas Liverpool needed him to adapt to different demands and, at times, operate in a more traditional full-back role.
Those concerns apparently went far enough for Liverpool to explore Palestra before Chelsea won the race for his signature.
And then came the attempt to bring in Malo Gusto.
Liverpool reportedly wanted Gusto on loan, but Chelsea were only prepared to consider a permanent departure. That left the Reds without the extra right-back option they had been looking for.
With Conor Bradley still working his way back from injury, the situation has left Liverpool relying heavily on Frimpong. However, Ronald Araújo has excelled since coming into the team at right-back, providing Liverpool with greater defensive security and showing that he can be a highly effective option in the position.
There is no question that Frimpong has enormous ability. His attacking threat, pace and movement can be devastating. But Liverpool need more than attacking quality from their right-back — particularly in a team that wants to dominate possession while also defending transitions.
Araújo’s performances have therefore offered Liverpool an important alternative while also highlighting the level required in the role. His ability to defend, compete physically and contribute to the team’s overall structure has made his impact particularly impressive since moving into the position.
The interesting part is that Liverpool’s recruitment team apparently saw the issue before many supporters did.
They looked at Palestra. They tried for Gusto. Neither deal happened.
Now Frimpong has to show why Liverpool believed he was the right man for the position in the first place, while Araújo’s emergence gives Liverpool another strong option to consider.
Because if those early concerns continue, the decision not to strengthen at right-back could become one of the biggest talking points of Liverpool’s season.
Source: The Athletic
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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