The Kopite View

There is finally some very positive news surrounding Giovanni Leoni.

The young Italian defender is closing in on a return to Liverpool training and is expected to rejoin the group during the upcoming international break.

After everything he has been through, that is a huge moment.

Leoni has been sidelined since suffering an ACL injury in September 2025, shortly after arriving at Liverpool.

Now, almost a year later, the 19-year-old is finally getting close to doing what he has been waiting so long to do:

Train with his teammates again.

What a moment this will be

Leoni’s Liverpool career has barely had the chance to begin.

The defender arrived from Parma with a huge reputation and was viewed as one of the most exciting young centre-backs in European football.

But his first season at Anfield was cruelly interrupted by that ACL injury.

Liverpool have understandably taken a very cautious approach throughout his rehabilitation.

There has been absolutely no reason to rush him.

An ACL injury is serious, particularly for a young player trying to establish himself at a new club.

The priority has always been getting Leoni back properly, rather than getting him back quickly.

And now that patience appears to be paying off.

Liverpool could soon have another defensive option

This could be a really important development for Andoni Iraola.

Liverpool have already strengthened their defence this summer with Jérémy Jacquet and Ronald Araújo, but injuries have tested the squad.

Leoni’s return would give Iraola another option at centre-back at a time when Liverpool are competing on multiple fronts.

And let’s not forget just how highly Liverpool rated him when they signed him.

This isn’t simply another youngster returning from injury.

Liverpool paid a significant fee for Leoni because they believed he had the potential to become an important player for the club.

We haven’t even properly seen what he can do yet.

Imagine Leoni alongside Van Dijk and Jacquet

This is the part that really excites me.

Liverpool now have Virgil van Dijk providing the experience, while Jacquet has already shown plenty of promise since arriving.

Araújo gives Iraola versatility and physicality.

And then there is Leoni.

At 19, he still has an enormous amount to learn, but his physical profile and ability on the ball make him a very interesting prospect.

Liverpool could eventually have a really exciting group of centre-backs.

Van Dijk can help guide the younger defenders, while players such as Jacquet and Leoni can gradually become more important.

That’s exactly the sort of succession planning Liverpool should be doing.

But nobody should expect too much too soon

This is where we have to be patient.

Leoni returning to training doesn’t mean he is suddenly ready to start Premier League matches.

There will be a period of building his fitness, getting used to contact again and regaining his confidence.

After almost a year away from competitive football, he will need time.

Liverpool shouldn’t put any pressure on him.

If that means waiting another few weeks or even longer before he is ready for first-team football, so be it.

The important thing is that he gets there.

This could feel like a new signing

And that’s why I’m genuinely excited about this update.

Liverpool supporters have barely seen Giovanni Leoni.

His first competitive appearance for the club ended with an ACL injury, meaning we never really got the opportunity to judge what he could bring to the team.

Now we might finally get that opportunity.

Imagine Liverpool reaching the second half of the season with Leoni, Jacquet, Araújo and Van Dijk all available.

That could give Iraola some excellent options.

And if Leoni develops as Liverpool hoped when they signed him, he could become a hugely important player for the future.

Welcome back, Giovanni

There is still a long way to go.

But seeing Leoni back involved with the group during the international break would be a massive step forward.

After months of rehabilitation, setbacks and patience, the young defender is finally getting closer to where he wants to be.

Back on the training pitch.

Back with his teammates.

And eventually, back playing football.

Liverpool supporters have been waiting a long time to see what Giovanni Leoni can really do.

Hopefully, the wait is finally coming to an end. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool have agreed a deal to sign Samuel Martinez from Atletico Nacional, with the highly rated Colombian teenager set to join the Reds’ Academy in the summer of 2027.

The 17-year-old attacking midfielder has already attracted attention in South America, and Liverpool have moved early to secure his future.

For me, this is another interesting example of the club looking towards the next generation.

Liverpool have spotted another young talent

Martinez is an attacking midfielder who has developed at Atletico Nacional in Colombia.

Liverpool have been monitoring him closely, and the club have now completed an agreement to bring him to Merseyside.

The Reds officially confirmed the deal in July, with Martinez due to join the Academy ahead of the 2027-28 season.

He won’t be arriving at Anfield tomorrow and immediately challenging Florian Wirtz or Dominik Szoboszlai.

This is a long-term project.

And that is exactly how Liverpool should be looking at it.

Why Liverpool are interested

Martinez is still only 17, which means there is plenty of development still to come.

But Liverpool clearly believe there is something worth investing in.

Reports around the deal put the fee at roughly £750,000, with Martinez having agreed a five-year contract.

That is a relatively small investment for a player who could potentially develop into something much more valuable.

Of course, there are absolutely no guarantees.

Plenty of talented teenagers never make it at the highest level.

But Liverpool are giving themselves the opportunity to find out.

He won’t arrive until 2027

One interesting part of the deal is that supporters will have to wait before seeing Martinez in a Liverpool shirt.

Because of his age and international transfer regulations, he will remain in Colombia before moving to England.

That means he is expected to join Liverpool’s Academy ahead of the 2027-28 campaign.

In some ways, that could actually benefit him.

He has another season to continue developing, playing football and gaining experience before making the move to a completely different country and footballing environment.

Liverpool’s long-term planning

This is the part I like most.

Liverpool cannot simply concentrate on signing established stars.

The club also needs to identify players before they become stars.

That’s how you build a sustainable squad.

We’ve already seen Liverpool invest heavily in young players, while the Academy continues to produce footballers capable of breaking into the senior squad.

Martinez is another player being brought into that system.

The plan will presumably be to allow him to develop at his own pace rather than immediately placing huge expectations on his shoulders.

Another Colombian talent to watch

There is also something exciting about Liverpool continuing to look into South American football.

Colombia has produced plenty of technically gifted players, and Martinez now has the opportunity to continue his development before eventually making the move to England.

Reports say Liverpool had been watching him at youth level, including during the CONMEBOL Under-17 Championship, where Colombia were victorious.

That’s encouraging.

Liverpool aren’t simply signing a youngster because somebody has recommended him.

They’ve been watching him.

They’ve assessed his potential.

And they’ve decided he is worth taking a chance on.

Don’t expect too much too soon

This is where we have to be realistic.

Martinez is 17.

He isn’t coming into Liverpool’s first-team squad next season.

He isn’t expected to replace Wirtz or Szoboszlai.

And we shouldn’t be putting enormous pressure on him before he has even arrived.

The important thing is that Liverpool have secured his future and can now help guide his development.

If he develops as hoped, this could eventually look like an extremely clever piece of business.

Another name for Liverpool supporters to remember

That’s ultimately what makes these deals exciting.

We don’t know whether Samuel Martinez will become a Liverpool first-team player.

Nobody can know that at 17.

But the club clearly sees enough potential to invest in him, and Liverpool supporters can now keep an eye on his progress in Colombia before he eventually arrives at the Academy.

Remember the name.

Samuel Martinez.

A 17-year-old attacking midfielder from Atletico Nacional.

Liverpool have already won the race to sign him.

Now the real work begins.

Develop him.

Give him time.

And who knows?

A few years from now, we might look back at this relatively small transfer and realise Liverpool had spotted something special very early.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Dominik Szoboszlai wanted a penalty.

Liverpool wanted a penalty.

And judging from the reaction inside the stadium, plenty of us thought Liverpool might actually get one.

But then came VAR.

And over two minutes later, we finally got the answer.

Szoboszlai had been offside in the build-up.

So yes — the correct decision was eventually made.

But why on earth did it take so long?

The delay was ridiculous

This is exactly what frustrates me about VAR.

I’m not complaining that the penalty wasn’t awarded.

If Szoboszlai was offside before the incident, then Liverpool shouldn’t get the penalty. Simple.

What I don’t understand is why it apparently took more than two minutes to establish something that should have been dealt with far quicker.

The whole point of technology is surely to make these decisions more accurate without bringing the game to a standstill.

Instead, everyone was left waiting.

Players were waiting.

The supporters were waiting.

The referee was waiting.

And nobody really knew what was happening.

Get the decision right — but get it quicker

I’m all for VAR getting the decision right.

I’d rather wait a little longer and get an important decision correct than have another major refereeing mistake decide a match.

But there has to be a balance.

The Premier League has already introduced semi-automated offside technology specifically to make these decisions quicker and more accurate.

So when we’re still waiting for more than two minutes to establish whether a player was offside, you have to ask questions.

Why is it taking this long?

Szoboszlai thought he had a chance

From Szoboszlai’s perspective, you can understand why he wanted the penalty.

There was contact and he immediately appealed.

The referee initially didn’t give it, before VAR intervened to examine what had happened.

But then the offside in the build-up changed everything.

Once that was established, the penalty was never going to stand.

And that’s fine.

Correct decision.

But the process was far too slow.

Liverpool have seen enough VAR drama

Liverpool supporters probably have a lower tolerance for VAR delays than most.

We’ve experienced some of the most infamous VAR controversies in Premier League history, including the disastrous decision at Tottenham involving Luis Diaz.

So whenever something involving Liverpool goes to VAR, you immediately start wondering how long it’s going to take and what on earth is happening.

That shouldn’t be the case.

VAR should give supporters more confidence in refereeing, not leave everyone sitting around wondering what the officials are doing.

What’s the point of semi-automated offside technology?

This is the part I really don’t understand.

Offside decisions are supposed to be one of the areas where technology can make life easier for officials.

The Premier League introduced semi-automated offside technology to help speed up the process.

Yet we’re still seeing lengthy stoppages.

If the technology can establish the offside quickly, use it.

If there’s a separate question about whether an offence happened before the offside, then deal with that.

But standing around for more than two minutes while everyone waits for an answer isn’t good for the game.

Right decision, wrong process

And that’s ultimately my view.

The officials got the decision right.

Szoboszlai was offside.

Liverpool shouldn’t have been awarded the penalty.

I’m not going to complain about that.

But VAR taking more than two minutes to reach the conclusion is unacceptable.

Football is supposed to flow.

One of the great things about the game is the emotion, the speed and the unpredictability.

Every time VAR takes an age to make a decision, some of that disappears.

VAR needs to be quicker

I don’t want VAR removed.

I want it improved.

If technology is going to be part of Premier League football, then let’s use it properly.

Get the decision right.

Explain it clearly.

And make the process as quick as reasonably possible.

Because nobody wants to celebrate a penalty, wait two minutes, watch everyone stand around and then finally hear that the player was offside.

Right decision? Yes.

Right process? Absolutely not.

VAR needs to be much quicker than this. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool have been handed a useful boost ahead of their Champions League opener against Atlético Madrid at Anfield.

According to Marca, Diego Simeone’s side are set to be without Alexander Sørloth through injury, while Arnau Ortiz will miss the game through suspension.

That means Atlético could arrive at Anfield without two attacking options for what promises to be a seriously difficult opening night in Europe.

And after Liverpool’s encouraging 2-0 victory over Ipswich, this is another little advantage that Andoni Iraola’s side will be happy to take.

Sørloth is a big absence

Sørloth’s absence could be particularly important.

The Norway international has been dealing with a muscle injury and has not yet returned to full group training, making a return against Liverpool extremely unlikely.

He would have provided Atlético with a very different threat.

His physical presence, aerial ability and willingness to occupy defenders can make life extremely uncomfortable for opposition centre-backs.

Liverpool will therefore be relieved not to have that particular problem to deal with.

Virgil van Dijk and Jérémy Jacquet will still have a difficult evening against Atlético’s other attacking options, but removing a player of Sørloth’s profile certainly helps.

Ortiz will also miss out

Arnau Ortiz’s absence is for a completely different reason.

The Atlético winger is suspended because of a UEFA ban dating back to 2024, when he was sent off while playing for Polish side Śląsk Wrocław in a Conference League qualifier. The suspension has carried over and must now be served.

It is a bizarre situation, but it means Ortiz won’t be walking out at Anfield on Wednesday night.

For Simeone, that’s another attacking option removed from his squad.

But Liverpool cannot get carried away

This is where Liverpool need to be careful.

I’m delighted that Atlético are missing players, but I certainly wouldn’t be looking at this game thinking it will suddenly be easy.

Simeone has plenty of quality available.

Players such as Julián Álvarez, along with the other attacking options at his disposal, mean Liverpool will still have a serious job on their hands.

And Atlético are exactly the type of side that can punish you if you become complacent.

They can defend.

They can counter-attack.

They can slow the game down.

And they have players capable of producing something from very little.

Anfield needs to make the difference

This is exactly the sort of Champions League night Liverpool supporters have been waiting for.

Anfield under the lights.

Champions League football.

Atlético Madrid.

And Iraola taking charge of his first European game as Liverpool manager.

The Reds also have momentum after beating Ipswich 2-0, with Alexander Isak scoring twice and Cody Gakpo providing both assists.

That will give Liverpool confidence going into Wednesday.

Isak has now opened his Liverpool account in spectacular fashion, while Gakpo continues to show why keeping him was such an important decision.

And then there is Bradley Barcola.

The new £100m-plus signing made his Liverpool debut from the bench against Ipswich and could potentially have a bigger role against Atlético.

That is an exciting prospect.

Iraola has to get this right

Liverpool have been given a little helping hand with Atlético’s absences.

Now Iraola has to take advantage.

The defensive improvement against Ipswich was encouraging, with Liverpool recording their first clean sheet of the season.

But Atlético will test them in completely different ways.

Liverpool cannot afford to switch off.

They need to control the midfield, protect the defence and get Isak involved as much as possible.

And if Barcola is given more minutes, his pace could be particularly useful against a team that may sit deeper for periods.

A boost — but nothing more

For me, the absence of Sørloth and Ortiz is definitely good news.

I’d rather Liverpool faced Atlético without them than with them.

But it doesn’t change the fundamental challenge.

This is Champions League football.

Atlético Madrid are experienced at this level.

And Simeone will have his team organised.

Liverpool still need to play well.

But this is an opportunity

Liverpool have been given a couple of advantages before the game has even kicked off.

Sørloth is expected to miss out through injury.

Ortiz is suspended.

Now Liverpool need to make those absences count.

Get the three points.

Start the Champions League campaign with a statement.

And give Iraola the European night he has been waiting for.

Anfield under the lights.

Atlético Madrid in town.

Liverpool have been handed a boost.

Now let’s make it count. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool have been handed a rather interesting opportunity.

According to TEAMtalk, Dani Carvajal has been offered to Liverpool by intermediaries as the legendary Real Madrid right-back looks for a new club.

Manchester City have also been approached, while Fulham are another Premier League option being explored.

And suddenly, I’m wondering:

Should Liverpool actually consider it?

Liverpool need a right-back

This is the obvious reason why Carvajal is an interesting proposition.

Liverpool went through the summer transfer window without signing a specialist right-back, despite the position being one of the areas I felt needed addressing.

Jeremie Frimpong has struggled at times.

Conor Bradley is currently unavailable.

Dominik Szoboszlai has already been used at right-back when necessary.

And while Ronald Araújo can provide cover in that position, he isn’t a natural solution for every situation.

So when a player with Carvajal’s experience suddenly becomes available without a transfer fee, it’s understandable that Liverpool would at least be presented with the opportunity.

This isn’t just any free agent

We’re talking about one of the most decorated right-backs of his generation.

Carvajal spent 13 years at Real Madrid, winning 26 major honours, including the Champions League on six occasions.

He’s played in the biggest matches imaginable.

Champions League finals.

El Clásicos.

International tournaments.

Title races.

Pressure games.

He’s experienced virtually everything football can throw at a player.

That doesn’t suddenly disappear because he’s 34.

But there’s a big question

How much does Carvajal have left?

That’s the issue Liverpool would have to examine very carefully.

At 34, this wouldn’t be a signing for the next five or six years.

Liverpool wouldn’t be signing the Carvajal who was flying down the right flank in his prime.

They would be signing an experienced veteran who could potentially provide short-term quality, leadership and defensive know-how.

And perhaps that’s exactly what Liverpool need.

Imagine having Carvajal around the squad

This is where I think it gets interesting.

Liverpool have a very young defence in places.

Jérémy Jacquet is still developing.

Ronald Araújo is adapting to a new club and league.

Conor Bradley is still establishing himself.

Carvajal could bring something completely different.

Experience.

He could train alongside the younger defenders every day.

He could help them understand the demands of playing at the highest level.

And if Liverpool needed someone to step into a difficult Champions League game, you’re getting a player who has spent his entire career dealing with that pressure.

That could be hugely valuable.

And Liverpool wouldn’t have to pay a transfer fee

This is probably the biggest attraction.

Carvajal is a free agent after leaving Real Madrid following his long spell at the club. TEAMtalk reports that he is keen to continue playing and is actively considering his options.

Liverpool wouldn’t have to spend £50m or £60m on another right-back.

The financial commitment would instead come through wages and the contract itself.

Of course, Carvajal’s salary expectations could still be significant.

But compared with paying a huge transfer fee for another player, it could be an interesting short-term gamble.

Would I sign him?

Honestly?

I’d seriously consider it.

Not as Liverpool’s long-term answer at right-back.

But as an experienced option who could help the squad immediately.

Liverpool don’t need Carvajal to play 50 matches.

They don’t need him to be the first-choice right-back every week.

They need him to provide competition, experience and reliability when required.

If the medical checks were positive and the wages were sensible, I wouldn’t automatically dismiss the idea.

But Liverpool aren’t the only option

Manchester City have also been offered Carvajal, while Fulham have been approached about a potential move.

Fulham could offer him regular Premier League football and a reunion with former Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa.

City could offer Champions League football and another opportunity to compete at the highest level.

So Liverpool can’t assume this opportunity will simply wait around.

This could actually make sense

I know some supporters might look at Carvajal’s age and immediately say no.

I understand that.

But I don’t think every signing has to be about buying someone for the next decade.

Sometimes you need an experienced player who can come in, do a job and help the players around him.

Liverpool have spent heavily on young talent.

They’ve invested in the future.

Maybe adding one experienced veteran isn’t such a bad idea.

And Carvajal certainly wouldn’t be short of experience.

The question Liverpool have to ask

Do Liverpool believe Carvajal still has enough left to contribute at Premier League level?

If the answer is yes, then I think this is worth exploring.

The fact he’s been offered to Liverpool doesn’t mean the Reds are interested.

It doesn’t mean negotiations have started.

And it certainly doesn’t mean Carvajal will end up at Anfield.

But the opportunity is there.

A legendary Real Madrid right-back is available for nothing.

Liverpool need right-back depth.

And suddenly, Dani Carvajal has been put on the table.

For me, this is one of those situations where Liverpool should at least pick up the phone.

It might just be worth taking a chance on a legend. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

The search for Liverpool’s new sporting director is already underway — and Mike Gordon is overseeing the process.

That is the latest information from Paul Gorst, and for me, this is one of the most important things happening behind the scenes at Liverpool right now.

Richard Hughes has gone.

Now Liverpool need to find his replacement.

And they cannot afford to get this appointment wrong.

Liverpool officially confirmed that Hughes had stepped down after two years at the club, while also stating that the process of appointing his successor was already underway.

Reports say FSG president Mike Gordon is leading the search.

This is about much more than replacing Richard Hughes

Liverpool don’t simply need somebody to take Hughes’ old job title.

They need somebody who can help shape the next era of the football club.

That’s a much bigger responsibility.

The new sporting director will have to work alongside Andoni Iraola, the recruitment department, the scouting team and the rest of Liverpool’s football structure.

They’ll have to identify targets.

Negotiate transfers.

Plan for contract situations.

Manage the evolution of the squad.

And, perhaps most importantly, make difficult decisions before problems become obvious.

That’s what I want Liverpool to get right.

Mike Gordon has a huge decision to make

I don’t envy Gordon here.

There will be plenty of names linked with the vacancy.

But Liverpool shouldn’t appoint somebody simply because they have an impressive CV or because another club has been successful with them.

The right person for Liverpool needs to understand what this club requires.

And I think the summer transfer window has shown exactly why.

Liverpool signed some outstanding players.

Bradley Barcola.

Alexander Isak.

Florian Wirtz.

Jérémy Jacquet.

Ronald Araújo.

There is plenty of quality there.

But there were also obvious areas where the squad could have been stronger.

Liverpool didn’t add another midfielder.

They didn’t sign a specialist right-back.

They allowed some experienced players to leave.

And there were moments during the window when supporters were left wondering whether the squad was properly balanced.

The new sporting director needs to look at the whole squad, not just individual transfers.

Liverpool need someone who can make difficult calls

This is something I’ve wanted to see more of from Liverpool.

Being a sporting director isn’t just about signing exciting players.

Sometimes it’s about saying no.

Sometimes it’s about selling a popular player at the right moment.

Sometimes it’s about deciding that a player needs replacing before everybody else realises it.

And sometimes it’s about refusing to panic and paying ridiculous money for a player simply because the deadline is approaching.

Liverpool need somebody who can make those decisions without emotion.

Cold, calculated and ruthless when necessary.

That’s the type of sporting director I’d like to see.

They also need to work with Iraola

This appointment is particularly important because Liverpool have a new manager.

Iraola is trying to mould his own team.

We’ve already seen changes in the way Liverpool play.

The recruitment strategy needs to support that.

The new sporting director has to understand what Iraola wants from his players.

What profiles does he need?

Where does the squad need more athleticism?

Where does it need more defensive security?

Which young players are ready to step up?

Which positions need strengthening?

Those conversations need to happen constantly.

Liverpool already have a football structure

One positive is that Gordon isn’t starting from scratch.

Liverpool still have important figures within their football operation, including Julian Ward, Pedro Marques, David Woodfine and Barry Hunter.

That’s important.

The new sporting director will be joining an established structure rather than walking into an empty office.

The challenge will be making sure everybody is pulling in the same direction.

We need someone better

I’ll be honest.

I don’t want Liverpool to simply find another Richard Hughes.

I want them to find somebody better.

Hughes deserves credit for plenty of things during his time at Liverpool.

He was involved in the appointment of Arne Slot and oversaw some enormous transfers, including Wirtz, Isak and Barcola.

But Liverpool’s squad still has weaknesses.

And whoever comes in has to be prepared to address them.

Not in two or three years.

Now.

This could define Liverpool’s next era

This is why I’m pleased the process has already started.

Liverpool can’t afford to spend months drifting without somebody properly overseeing the football operation.

The club needs a clear plan.

A clear recruitment strategy.

And somebody with the authority and expertise to make it happen.

Mike Gordon now has a huge responsibility.

Get this one right, Liverpool

For me, this appointment could be every bit as important as signing another £100m player.

Get the right sporting director and Liverpool could have somebody helping Iraola build a squad capable of competing for everything.

Get the wrong person and the same problems could keep appearing year after year.

So don’t rush it.

But don’t get it wrong either.

The search has started.

Mike Gordon is overseeing it.

And now I’m hoping FSG finds somebody who can take Liverpool forward rather than simply replace the man who has just left.

We don’t need another sporting director for the sake of it.

We need the right one.

And preferably, someone who is better than the last one.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

It’s still very early.

I’m certainly not going to start claiming Liverpool have suddenly solved all of their defensive problems after one clean sheet.

But I’ll admit something.

I really like what I’ve seen from Ronald Araújo and Jérémy Jacquet.

Both players arrived at Liverpool with plenty of expectations, and the early signs are extremely encouraging.

Araújo looks like exactly what Liverpool needed

Let’s start with Ronald Araújo.

Against Ipswich, he started at right-back rather than his more familiar centre-back position — and I thought he was excellent.

He gave Liverpool something they haven’t always had on that side:

Defensive security.

Araújo is strong.

He’s aggressive.

He’s quick enough to recover.

He’s excellent in the air.

And he isn’t afraid of a physical battle.

Against Ipswich, he won all six of the aerial duels he contested, while Liverpool as a team looked considerably more comfortable defensively.

That matters.

Liverpool have looked vulnerable at times during the opening weeks of the season.

Against Newcastle and Nottingham Forest, there were moments when the defence looked too open.

At Ipswich?

It was different.

Liverpool looked more controlled.

More compact.

More comfortable.

And Araújo was a big part of that.

Maybe right-back isn’t such a problem after all

This is where it gets really interesting.

Liverpool didn’t sign a specialist right-back before the deadline.

That frustrated me.

But perhaps the answer was already sitting in the squad.

Araújo playing at right-back gives Andoni Iraola a completely different option to Jeremie Frimpong.

Frimpong gives you attacking explosiveness.

Araújo gives you defensive strength.

And there will be matches where Liverpool need one more than the other.

That’s not necessarily a bad thing.

In fact, having different profiles could become a major advantage.

And then there’s Jacquet

I have to say, I’m really impressed with what I’ve seen from Jérémy Jacquet as well.

He’s young.

He’s still learning.

And he’s inevitably going to make mistakes.

But there’s something about him that I really like.

He doesn’t look overawed.

He’s aggressive in his challenges.

He’s comfortable on the ball.

He’s willing to step forward.

And he looks like a defender who wants to impose himself on the game.

That is exactly what you want from a young centre-back coming into Liverpool.

Iraola is throwing him in at the deep end

The Ipswich game was particularly interesting because Jacquet had to deal with the pressure of playing on a yellow card.

He was eventually left on the pitch by Iraola, despite the risk of a second booking. The manager later explained that Jacquet needed to experience that pressure as part of his development.

I actually like that.

Of course, you don’t want your young centre-back getting sent off.

But you also can’t protect young players forever.

At some point, they have to learn how to manage those situations.

And Iraola clearly believes Jacquet is capable of doing it.

Imagine what this defence could become

This is the exciting part for me.

You’ve got Virgil van Dijk providing experience and leadership.

You’ve got Jacquet developing alongside him.

You’ve got Araújo capable of playing centre-back or right-back.

And you’ve got other options coming back from injury.

Suddenly, the defensive picture doesn’t look quite as worrying as it did a few weeks ago.

And remember, Liverpool’s first clean sheet of the season came at Ipswich after the team had conceded in nine consecutive matches.

That’s a significant improvement.

It’s only one game.

But it’s a start.

Araújo and Jacquet could complement each other brilliantly

What I particularly like is that they’re different types of defenders.

Araújo is physically imposing.

Jacquet is more of a developing modern centre-back who looks comfortable stepping out and playing football.

Put those qualities alongside Van Dijk and Liverpool have plenty to work with.

And if Araújo eventually becomes a permanent Liverpool player, we could be looking at the foundations of a very good defence.

That’s obviously a big “if” because he’s currently on loan.

But his debut has certainly made me want to see more.

Have Liverpool actually improved defensively?

It’s far too soon to answer that definitively.

Two 2-2 draws were followed by a 2-0 win.

That’s encouraging.

But Liverpool will face much tougher tests than Ipswich.

The Champions League is coming.

The Premier League will get more demanding.

There will be injuries.

There will be suspensions.

There will be games where Liverpool have to defend for their lives.

That’s when we’ll really find out how good this defence can be.

But I’m much more optimistic than I was a couple of weeks ago.

The early signs are very good

For me, that’s the key phrase.

Early signs.

Not finished product.

Not guaranteed success.

Not Liverpool suddenly having the best defence in the Premier League.

Just early signs that two new additions could become extremely important.

Araújo has already shown that he can give Liverpool defensive security.

Jacquet has shown that he isn’t afraid of the challenge.

And both players still have room to improve.

Liverpool may have something here

I was worried about Liverpool’s defence.

I’ll admit that.

But watching Araújo against Ipswich and seeing Jacquet continue to develop has changed my mood slightly.

Maybe Liverpool’s defensive rebuild doesn’t need to happen overnight.

Maybe the club have already made two very important additions.

Araújo could provide the strength and versatility.

Jacquet could provide the future.

And with Van Dijk still leading the defence, Liverpool have a really interesting combination.

It’s only the beginning.

There will be difficult days ahead.

But if those two continue developing at this rate, Liverpool could have found themselves two excellent defensive additions.

And that would be very good news indeed. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Sometimes football gives you exactly what you want.

And for me, this was one of those nights.

Everton and Manchester United played out a 2-2 draw — and I couldn’t have asked for a better result.

Not because I particularly wanted Everton to get anything.

And certainly not because I wanted Manchester United to get anything.

I wanted both of them to drop points.

And that’s exactly what happened.

It couldn’t have been better

Manchester United looked like they were heading for the three points after Benjamin Šeško put them 2-1 ahead in the 88th minute.

At that point, Everton looked beaten.

But then came the moment Liverpool supporters could enjoy.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles equalised with virtually the last kick of the game.

A stunning long-range effort in the 96th minute rescued Everton a point and denied United the victory.

Honestly?

Perfect.

Everton don’t get the three points.

United don’t get the three points.

And Liverpool stay above both of them.

I’ll take that every single time.

Liverpool are above them both

The important thing is that we’re still incredibly early in the season.

But when you’re a Liverpool supporter, you still look at the table.

And after three games, Liverpool have five points.

Everton also have five.

Manchester United have four.

Everton’s draw leaves them eighth, while United are 11th, with Liverpool sitting above both.

It’s obviously far too early to start talking about league positions seriously.

But there’s absolutely nothing wrong with enjoying it.

Especially when the two teams you’re desperate to finish above have just taken points off each other.

The best possible outcome

Think about the alternatives.

If United had won, they’d have picked up three points.

If Everton had won, they’d have picked up three points.

Instead?

They shared them.

That’s exactly what I wanted.

It’s one of those results where you don’t really care who wins because the draw is better for Liverpool.

And when the equaliser comes in the 96th minute?

Even better.

Sorry, Everton

I have to admit, I almost enjoyed the goal more because of how late it was.

Everton had already been celebrating their first equaliser earlier in the match through Tyrique George.

United then appeared to have won it through Šeško with just minutes remaining.

Then Maitland-Niles produced an incredible finish to send the home supporters wild.

For Everton, it was a dramatic point.

For United, it was two points thrown away.

For Liverpool supporters?

Beautiful.

Liverpool just need to concentrate on Liverpool

Of course, none of this actually matters if Liverpool don’t keep winning.

That’s the important bit.

Andoni Iraola’s side finally got their first Premier League victory of the season against Ipswich on Friday, with Alexander Isak scoring twice in a 2-0 win.

That gives Liverpool five points from their opening three games.

Now the challenge is to build on that.

The draw at Newcastle was frustrating.

The draw against Nottingham Forest was disappointing.

But the win at Ipswich was exactly what Liverpool needed.

Now we have to start putting together another run of victories.

And I’ll happily watch United and Everton take points off each other

There will be plenty of twists and turns this season.

Liverpool will drop points.

United will drop points.

Everton will drop points.

That’s football.

But if those two clubs can take points off each other while Liverpool keep moving forward, I’ll be absolutely delighted.

Because ultimately, that’s what matters.

Liverpool don’t need Everton to lose every week.

Liverpool don’t need Manchester United to lose every week.

We just need Liverpool to finish above them.

And right now?

We’re above both.

What a result

So yes, I’ll admit it.

I enjoyed that one.

Everton equalising with virtually the last kick.

United dropping two points.

Everton only getting one.

Liverpool sitting above both.

That’s about as close to the perfect result as you can get.

It’s only the very early stages of the season.

The table will change countless times between now and May.

But tonight?

I’m looking at it and smiling.

Liverpool above Everton.

Liverpool above Manchester United.

And the two of them have just taken points off each other.

I’ll take that.

Absolutely perfect. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool supporters spent much of the summer wondering why the club didn’t bring in another midfielder after Curtis Jones left for Inter Milan.

Now we may finally have an answer.

According to Ben Jacobs, Liverpool never actually intended to add another midfielder following Jones’ departure.

And that makes the situation surrounding Lamine Camara particularly interesting.

Because while Liverpool didn’t want Camara this summer, they apparently could have moved for him if Alexis Mac Allister had left the club.

Liverpool didn’t see Jones as someone they had to replace

This is probably the biggest takeaway from Jacobs’ update.

Liverpool didn’t look at their squad and think:

“Curtis Jones has left, so we need to sign another midfielder.”

Instead, the club apparently believed they already had enough options.

Mac Allister.

Dominik Szoboszlai.

Ryan Gravenberch.

And the other midfield options available to Andoni Iraola.

From Liverpool’s perspective, losing Jones didn’t automatically create a hole that needed filling.

Whether supporters agree with that decision is another matter entirely.

Personally, I’m still not completely convinced.

I would have liked another midfielder

This is where my opinion differs from the club’s apparent thinking.

I understand why Liverpool didn’t panic.

They didn’t want to sign a player simply for the sake of replacing Jones.

But I still believe there was an opportunity to improve the midfield.

Liverpool have plenty of technical quality.

What I questioned was the balance.

They don’t really have an obvious specialist defensive midfielder who can sit in front of the defence and provide that extra protection when games become chaotic.

Iraola may not want a traditional No.6.

His system relies on collective defending and pressing.

But over a long season, having another midfielder with different qualities can be invaluable.

And then there’s Lamine Camara

This is where things become really interesting.

Jacobs says Liverpool’s only route to making a summer bid for Camara would have been if Mac Allister had departed.

That tells us something important about how Liverpool viewed the Monaco midfielder.

They clearly liked him.

But they didn’t see him as someone they needed to sign immediately.

And that potentially explains why Liverpool didn’t move when Chelsea were pushing hard to bring Camara to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea reportedly had a £47 million agreement in place before Monaco pulled the plug on the transfer on deadline day.

Liverpool, meanwhile, appear to have been thinking longer term.

Camara could still be a Liverpool player

This is the part I would be watching very closely.

Jacobs says Camara still dreams of moving to the Premier League, while a January departure has not been ruled out.

Liverpool have already been linked with the Senegal international, and reports after deadline day suggested the Reds had effectively told Camara and Monaco to wait, with a potential move in 2027 still possible.

So this story isn’t finished.

Not even close.

Camara may have missed out on Chelsea.

But that doesn’t mean his Premier League dream has disappeared.

And Liverpool could eventually become the club that makes it happen.

January could change everything

The big question is whether Liverpool decide that their midfield needs strengthening once the season develops.

That’s something we simply don’t know yet.

Maybe Mac Allister, Szoboszlai and Gravenberch stay fit and perform brilliantly.

Maybe Liverpool’s midfield looks completely comfortable.

Or perhaps the demands of the Premier League, Champions League and domestic cups expose the lack of another option.

If that happens, Liverpool could revisit Camara.

And there is already evidence that they admire him.

David Ornstein has separately indicated that Camara would have been Liverpool’s preferred midfield target if Mac Allister had left, which adds further weight to the idea that the Monaco midfielder remains one to watch.

Maybe Liverpool are waiting to see what happens

There is another way of looking at this.

Liverpool might simply believe that January is the right time.

Why spend £40m, £50m or potentially more on a midfielder when you’re not convinced you need him?

Wait.

Assess the squad.

See how Iraola’s midfield develops.

Then make a decision.

That could actually be sensible squad management.

The danger, of course, is that Camara’s price could increase.

He’s only 22 and is already attracting serious Premier League interest.

If he continues performing for Monaco and Senegal, there could be even more competition for his signature.

I still think Liverpool need more midfield protection

For me, this is the bigger issue.

I don’t necessarily think Liverpool made a mistake by not signing Camara.

I think the bigger question is whether they were right to decide that another midfielder wasn’t necessary at all.

Those are two completely different arguments.

Camara might not have been required in August.

But Liverpool may discover in October or November that the midfield needs another dimension.

That’s when the decision becomes much more interesting.

Don’t be surprised if we hear this name again

Liverpool didn’t sign Lamine Camara this summer.

That much is clear.

But it doesn’t mean the club have moved on from him.

The reports suggest Liverpool were prepared to wait rather than force a deal, while Camara remains keen on eventually making the move to England.

And if Liverpool suddenly decide they need another midfielder, Camara could be the obvious player to revisit.

Especially if Mac Allister’s situation changes.

The door is still open

Maybe Liverpool were right.

Maybe they have enough midfielders.

Maybe Jones’ departure won’t hurt the squad at all.

But if Iraola finds himself wanting another player who can add energy, defensive aggression and quality in midfield, Liverpool already appear to know who they want.

Lamine Camara.

The summer move didn’t happen.

But January hasn’t been ruled out.

And with Camara still dreaming of the Premier League, I certainly wouldn’t be surprised if this Liverpool story comes back around.

Perhaps Liverpool aren’t finished with Lamine Camara just yet. 

Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool have reportedly planned contract talks with Virgil van Dijk, with discussions expected to take place before January.

And for me, this is a really interesting development.

Because this isn’t simply about whether Van Dijk stays or goes.

It is about what role Liverpool believe their captain should have in the next stage of the club’s evolution.

The important thing is that no final decision has been made.

Both Liverpool and Van Dijk want what is best for the club and the player, while the Dutchman remains happy and settled at Anfield.

That should be reassuring to Liverpool supporters.

Van Dijk isn’t finished yet

Let’s get one thing straight.

I don’t think Liverpool should be looking at Van Dijk and thinking: “He’s coming to the end, we need to move on.”

Quite the opposite.

He’s still Liverpool’s captain.

He’s still an enormous presence in the dressing room.

And he’s still capable of producing outstanding performances.

Liverpool don’t simply lose a centre-back if Van Dijk eventually leaves.

They lose leadership, experience, communication and an understanding of what it means to play for Liverpool.

That’s incredibly difficult to replace.

Van Dijk’s current contract runs until the summer of 2027 after he signed his previous extension in April 2025.

So Liverpool have time.

But they also need to start thinking about what comes next.

What will the talks actually be about?

This is the part that fascinates me.

The reports suggest that Van Dijk’s future and role will be discussed.

That doesn’t necessarily mean Liverpool are preparing to push him out.

It could mean the club want to understand how he sees the next couple of years of his career.

Does he still want to play every week?

Would he be comfortable with a slightly reduced workload?

Could he become more of a mentor to Liverpool’s younger defenders?

And, crucially, does Van Dijk see himself continuing beyond his current contract?

These are conversations Liverpool have to have.

And I’d much rather they happen early than suddenly find themselves scrambling when the contract is approaching its end.

Liverpool are building a new defence

There has already been significant change.

Jérémy Jacquet has arrived.

Ronald Araújo has joined on loan.

Liverpool are clearly thinking about the future of their defence while still relying heavily on Van Dijk.

And that’s exactly how it should be.

You don’t replace a player like Van Dijk overnight.

You gradually build the next generation around him.

He can continue to lead while younger defenders learn from him.

That’s particularly important for someone like Jacquet, who is arriving at Liverpool with enormous expectations.

Having Van Dijk alongside him could be invaluable.

But Liverpool have to be ruthless

This is where the club have to get the balance right.

Sentiment cannot be the only factor.

Van Dijk deserves enormous respect for everything he has achieved at Liverpool.

But Liverpool also have to make decisions based on what is best for the team.

If his performances remain at the required level, keep him.

If his role needs to change, have an honest conversation.

If the player himself eventually decides the time is right to move on, respect that too.

That’s what good squad management looks like.

It’s not about getting rid of legends.

It’s about knowing when and how to evolve.

I would keep him for as long as he’s good enough

Personally, I’m firmly in this camp.

If Van Dijk is still performing at the level Liverpool need, I have absolutely no problem with him staying beyond his current contract.

Age shouldn’t automatically determine whether a player deserves another deal.

Performance should.

And there is another factor.

Liverpool have just changed manager.

Andoni Iraola is trying to build his own team and establish his own identity.

Having a player like Van Dijk in that process is a huge advantage.

He knows Liverpool.

He understands the pressure.

He understands what it takes to win the Premier League and Champions League.

And he can help Iraola’s new group of players understand what wearing that shirt means.

The captaincy matters too

Van Dijk’s role isn’t only about what happens during 90 minutes.

He’s the captain.

He’s the voice at the back.

He’s one of the senior figures in the dressing room.

And with Liverpool undergoing such a significant transition, I think that experience becomes even more valuable.

We’ve already seen Liverpool bring in a number of new players.

Isak.

Wirtz.

Barcola.

Araújo.

Jacquet.

Muñoz.

That’s a lot of change.

Someone has to help bring all of those players into the Liverpool culture.

Virgil van Dijk can do that.

But what happens when the next generation is ready?

That’s the difficult question.

Liverpool cannot rely on Van Dijk forever.

At some point, the next defensive leader has to emerge.

Maybe it’s Jacquet.

Maybe it’s Araújo if his loan becomes permanent.

Maybe it’s somebody Liverpool haven’t even signed yet.

But the ideal scenario is that Liverpool don’t wait until Van Dijk leaves before finding that player.

They prepare now.

And Van Dijk can help them do it.

Don’t rush this decision

For me, the most important thing about these reported talks is that there is no need to panic.

Van Dijk is happy.

Liverpool want what is best for the player and the club.

And discussions are expected before January.

That’s exactly how it should be.

Sit down.

Talk honestly.

Look at his performances.

Look at his physical condition.

Discuss his ambitions.

Discuss his role.

Then make the decision.

Don’t make it simply because he’s getting older.

Make it because Liverpool believe it is the right footballing decision.

One thing is certain

Whatever happens next, Virgil van Dijk has already secured his place in Liverpool history.

He arrived in January 2018 and helped transform the club.

Premier League.

Champions League.

FA Cup.

League Cup.

Club World Cup.

And now he’s leading Liverpool into another new era.

The next contract conversation will eventually decide what the final chapter looks like.

But there’s no reason to write that ending yet.

If Virgil is still good enough, I want him at Liverpool.

And if these talks eventually lead to another extension, I certainly won’t be complaining.

Because replacing Van Dijk is going to be one of the hardest jobs Liverpool ever face.

So let’s enjoy him while we’ve still got him.

Jamie (The Kopite View)