The departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid in the summer of 2025 left a large space for Liverpool. As the right defender with the ability to create and pass the ball over the excellent route, he has contributed greatly to the Premier League and the Champions League titles. In the context of Liverpool looking for a replacement, Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong was mentioned. However, journalist David Lynch said that signing a contract with Frimpong to replace Alexander-Arnold may not fit the strategy of coach Arne Slot.
Frimpong, 24, is shining with 4 goals and 12 assists this season at Leverkusen. However, he is a wing-back rather than traditional right defender. Frimpong’s role in Leverkusen’s 3-4-3 or 3-5-2 scheme allows him to rise and focus on attacking.
In contrast, Liverpool under Slot used a 4-3-3 diagram, requiring the defender to balance the defense and support the attack. Alexander-Arnold has redefined this position with accurate long passes and pace control, which Frimpong has not fully shown. Frimpong’s defensive ability is not prominent, making it difficult for him to meet the strict requirements in Anfield.
Moreover, Liverpool, the team just won the Premier League, has Conor Bradley, 21 -year -old young talent, ready to take on the right of right defender. Bradley has shown great potential with speed, assertiveness and ability to adapt to the play of Slot. “Does Frimpong accept to be a reserve for Bradley?” Lynch asked. With the top form, Frimpong is hard to go to Liverpool to sit on the bench, especially when he can find the club to ensure the main stone. The recruitment of Frimpong can also hinder Bradley’s development, who is considered to be Liverpool’s long -term future.
In terms of strategy, Slot is building a balanced squad, taking advantage of the pillars like Mohamed Salah and Virgil Van Dijk, and adding new factors like Giorgi Mamardashvili. Instead of running after Frimpong, Liverpool should find a defender must have the ability to defend firmly and participate in building the game from the lower route, in accordance with the style of Alexander-Arnold. Signing a contract with Frimpong, despite the attractive attack, can deviate from Slot’s long -term plan, especially when Bradley is ready to shine.
Losing Alexander-Arnold is a loss, but Liverpool is still strong enough to compete with the current squad. Focusing on Bradley and the appropriate goals will help The Reds continue the journey to conquer the title.
