I know it's a closed door scrimmage against a championship side, but some fun highlights in here. Wirtz is just so smooth. We are going to see some special combination play this season.
* Liverpool 2025-2026 thread *
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Last: 9 min ago by AG@RICE
So maybe keep #9 too?
Ekiteke deal done, medical on Tuesday.
Chieaa left out of Asia squad.
Chieaa left out of Asia squad.
So Isak really wants to leave Newcastle and go to Liverpool.
Will see how this actually plays out but this is the craziest transfer window.
Will see how this actually plays out but this is the craziest transfer window.
I still really think a lot of this actual is spurred on by next summer being a WC summer and no one wants to do business then from a player perspective.
It does make me think Liverpool might have signed Ekitike as a do it all forward who can play ok the middle but also play on either wing with the way he can carry the ball and create passes for others.
It does make me think Liverpool might have signed Ekitike as a do it all forward who can play ok the middle but also play on either wing with the way he can carry the ball and create passes for others.
I would have thought the Isak rumours would have died down once the Ekitike signing was completed. But, if anything, they've grown louder. I think if that deal somehow miraculously gets over the line then that spells the end of Luis Diaz's time in Merseyside and Liverpool is just negotiating with Bayern for his exit.
As far as other outgoings, we need a few to happen as the squad is looking quite bloated.
Staying with the front line, I think Darwin now has to stay imo to help make up the numbers. I think having 5 options in attack is ideal for us and the way we play (Darwin, Salah, Gakpo, Ekitike, and Diaz/Isak). Which means Federico Chiesa is being the shown the door, a not too surprising development given how Slot doesn't seem to rate him. At all.
In the midfield, I think we'd ideally operate with 6-7 players (Endo, Szobozlai, Mac Allister, Jones, Gravenberch, Wirtz, and then one of Elliott/Bajcetic/Morton). I still rate Harvey Elliott very highly. I'd rather sell Jones than him. But I understand having to sell to make the transfer maths work. I just hope we insert a buy-back clause bc with regular first team football, I truly think a great player is in there. And then you loan out one of Bajcetic or Morton.
And lastly, the defensive line needs some work. We don't need 3 LBs and with Andy Robertson recently being named vice-captain, that leaves Tsimikas as the odd man out. His age makes him a prime candidate to extract maximum value. I think he's a great "locker room guy" (and he also just got a touching Jota tribute tattoo on his left hand). Bradley and Frimpong can cover the RB position which means another loan (or maybe it's time to sell) Calvin Ramsey. He's just never gonna crack the first team. And then I think the obvious focus should be on the CB position. VvD and Ibou are obviously still first choice. (Konate is rumoured to want to stay and Liverpool have apparently offered an improved contract extension so hopefully he puts pen to paper). Which leaves Joe Gomez as the only other senior CB. The Marc Guehi rumours won't subside either. He would be a good rotational option, but if we splash the cash on Isak, do we have any funds left over? Rhys Williams isn't good enough but does he stay just to make do in an emergency situation? It's going to be an interesting few weeks. I think once the season starts, that's the team we are going with this season. I don't see Slot wanting to add players on Transfer Deadline Day. I would imagine he would want a settled team by the time August 15 rolls around.
This has been the wildest (and best) transfer window I've ever seen as a Liverpool fan. This is miles better than when we were signing an aging Joe Cole, an red card prone Christian Poulsen, and the terrible Paul Konchesky. We've endured some awful transfer windows, so this is a nice change of pace. My only concern is: Have we changed too much in a short time to disrupt team chemistry? Slot seems to be the guy to guide this kind of ship. Make no mistake, with all these changes, this is his team now. I am hopeful this squad is gonna band together in a special way to honour Diogo Jota. The recently unveiled mural is a wonderful tribute as is the "Forever" section on the Liverpool roster website.
As far as other outgoings, we need a few to happen as the squad is looking quite bloated.
Staying with the front line, I think Darwin now has to stay imo to help make up the numbers. I think having 5 options in attack is ideal for us and the way we play (Darwin, Salah, Gakpo, Ekitike, and Diaz/Isak). Which means Federico Chiesa is being the shown the door, a not too surprising development given how Slot doesn't seem to rate him. At all.
In the midfield, I think we'd ideally operate with 6-7 players (Endo, Szobozlai, Mac Allister, Jones, Gravenberch, Wirtz, and then one of Elliott/Bajcetic/Morton). I still rate Harvey Elliott very highly. I'd rather sell Jones than him. But I understand having to sell to make the transfer maths work. I just hope we insert a buy-back clause bc with regular first team football, I truly think a great player is in there. And then you loan out one of Bajcetic or Morton.
And lastly, the defensive line needs some work. We don't need 3 LBs and with Andy Robertson recently being named vice-captain, that leaves Tsimikas as the odd man out. His age makes him a prime candidate to extract maximum value. I think he's a great "locker room guy" (and he also just got a touching Jota tribute tattoo on his left hand). Bradley and Frimpong can cover the RB position which means another loan (or maybe it's time to sell) Calvin Ramsey. He's just never gonna crack the first team. And then I think the obvious focus should be on the CB position. VvD and Ibou are obviously still first choice. (Konate is rumoured to want to stay and Liverpool have apparently offered an improved contract extension so hopefully he puts pen to paper). Which leaves Joe Gomez as the only other senior CB. The Marc Guehi rumours won't subside either. He would be a good rotational option, but if we splash the cash on Isak, do we have any funds left over? Rhys Williams isn't good enough but does he stay just to make do in an emergency situation? It's going to be an interesting few weeks. I think once the season starts, that's the team we are going with this season. I don't see Slot wanting to add players on Transfer Deadline Day. I would imagine he would want a settled team by the time August 15 rolls around.
This has been the wildest (and best) transfer window I've ever seen as a Liverpool fan. This is miles better than when we were signing an aging Joe Cole, an red card prone Christian Poulsen, and the terrible Paul Konchesky. We've endured some awful transfer windows, so this is a nice change of pace. My only concern is: Have we changed too much in a short time to disrupt team chemistry? Slot seems to be the guy to guide this kind of ship. Make no mistake, with all these changes, this is his team now. I am hopeful this squad is gonna band together in a special way to honour Diogo Jota. The recently unveiled mural is a wonderful tribute as is the "Forever" section on the Liverpool roster website.
I still think this transfer window is simply the stars aligning for Liverpool and FSG to spend like they have. Not saying they weren't going to spend regardless, but it just so happens that this summer absolute world class players seem to be ready and aiming for the big move, ie. Wirtz, Frimpong, Kerkez, Gyokeres, Zubimendi, the list goes on and on.
Great post btw and well thought out. I tend to agree that IF Isak does not happen, I tend to agree that holding onto Darwin might be the best option. You need guys up there, and with Diaz feeling like a sure fire sell keeping Darwin feels like a must to make sure you have enough coverage up top (Salah, Gakpo, Ekitike, Nunez and perhaps a youngster on a part time basis). Now, IF Isak does happen, which I still really don't think will, Nunez has to be sold. Not only to recoup some money but also to make sure you don't have unhappy players. Plus that gives us three players who are of the same mold and not much variety.
I also disagree a bit with Elliott and Jones. I think Jones is more important to this iteration of the team. He's a do it all, holding midfielder who can spell Maca and Gravenberch in pinch. He played a ton last year as well. With the introduction of Wirtz I think Szbo will get pushed into traditional midfield, but Jones will has a role there for me. I'm not sure what is going on with Elliott either. He did a pretty candid interview after practice the other day about how he loves the club and will do all that he can for it, but that at the end of the day if they want to sell him he's going to be sold and play somewhere else. We'll see.
Great post btw and well thought out. I tend to agree that IF Isak does not happen, I tend to agree that holding onto Darwin might be the best option. You need guys up there, and with Diaz feeling like a sure fire sell keeping Darwin feels like a must to make sure you have enough coverage up top (Salah, Gakpo, Ekitike, Nunez and perhaps a youngster on a part time basis). Now, IF Isak does happen, which I still really don't think will, Nunez has to be sold. Not only to recoup some money but also to make sure you don't have unhappy players. Plus that gives us three players who are of the same mold and not much variety.
I also disagree a bit with Elliott and Jones. I think Jones is more important to this iteration of the team. He's a do it all, holding midfielder who can spell Maca and Gravenberch in pinch. He played a ton last year as well. With the introduction of Wirtz I think Szbo will get pushed into traditional midfield, but Jones will has a role there for me. I'm not sure what is going on with Elliott either. He did a pretty candid interview after practice the other day about how he loves the club and will do all that he can for it, but that at the end of the day if they want to sell him he's going to be sold and play somewhere else. We'll see.
Watched the first half vs Milan and just want to say Rio has to be part of the 1st team this year. He is absolutely electric with the ball and beat everyone every time he got it. He honestly looked like the best player on the field, confident and just looks like he belongs.
Other than that, Liverpool fielded a typical preseason mix of a few starters along with others. They dominated the ball/possession but were just off in the final 1/3 and very susceptible/vulnerable to the counter and at the back end.
Other than that, Liverpool fielded a typical preseason mix of a few starters along with others. They dominated the ball/possession but were just off in the final 1/3 and very susceptible/vulnerable to the counter and at the back end.
Tsimikas and Gravenberch both getting time at CB if there were any questions about the need for depth there.
No doubt. We can talk about Isak and all the strikers and such, but we need CB help. Along with the attacking/pressing style with Frimpong and Kerkez we are again very susceptible at the back.
Milan has 2 already on the counter and could have another 2 or so. But again, just a preseason mishmash of a game.
Make that 3 on the counter. No thought of D lol...just all up attacking and then simply shredded.
Milan has 2 already on the counter and could have another 2 or so. But again, just a preseason mishmash of a game.
Make that 3 on the counter. No thought of D lol...just all up attacking and then simply shredded.
I agree with this. He 100% needs to be in the team for me. He's so gifted in the opposing half. Bursting forward, running in, behind, taking on men etc. Also, WATCH OUT for Szoboszlai if he's going to be playing deeper and around the 18 rather than running in it. He strikes the ball like very few and allowing him to play outside the 18 is taking advantage of his best abilities.
Yeah there's no care in the world to defend in this game. Tons of guys just jogging and walking, not sprinting back, out of position etc. Idc much tbh. I don't want VVD, Konate, Gravenberch pulling a hammy. I couldn't care less if they run back.
Yeah there's no care in the world to defend in this game. Tons of guys just jogging and walking, not sprinting back, out of position etc. Idc much tbh. I don't want VVD, Konate, Gravenberch pulling a hammy. I couldn't care less if they run back.
hoosierAG said:
No doubt. We can talk about Isak and all the strikers and such, but we need CB help. Along with the attacking/pressing style with Frimpong and Kerkez we are again very susceptible at the back.
Milan has 2 already on the counter and could have another 2 or so. But again, just a preseason mishmash of a game.
Make that 3 on the counter. No thought of D lol...just all up attacking and then simply shredded.
To be fair, we are playing really high up the pitch with a mixed squad and Milan are intentionally setting up for the counter with their starters. There is no tactical game being played by Slot here.
That's not to say counter attacking won't be a concern, but this is definitely not the end product of what we will see this season. I fully expect to add a CB or two.
I also think missing so many attacking regulars is having a big impact. Losing possession much more often than would be normally.
I really really like Trey Nyoni and think he will make Curtis Jones expendable in short order.
Frimpong has looked great.
Oh, don't disagree at all. Again, just a typical preseason hodge podge. Do think our CB depth and personnel/style will continue to leave the back end D a concern.
And Milan still had starters in deep in the second half it looked like.
And Milan still had starters in deep in the second half it looked like.
Cody……buddy……that was a MISS
He made up for it though. That's the reason he's starting.
He made up for it though. That's the reason he's starting.
Tsimikas needs to get gone.
Yeah, that was ugly.
Diaz held out due to Bayern deal imminent. No surprise here
Gomez had to go back to the UK because he's already injured? Good lord. I'd be getting that Konate deal done tonight, and following that up with a deal for Charlie Cresswell. The need a young CB who's got upside but willing to sit behind VVD and Konate.
"Minor" Achilles injury. Even with him healthy CB definitely has to be addressed.
Luis Diaz to Bayern looks close, somewhere in the neighborhood of 65 million pounds. Not bad for a 28 year old player.
I will miss Diaz and have always loved his effort, but Gakpo is a quality LW and there is still plenty of flexibility to add another attacker in some form.
I will believe Isak is a realistic option once it's done. Malyck Fofana is another name I keep seeing.
I will miss Diaz and have always loved his effort, but Gakpo is a quality LW and there is still plenty of flexibility to add another attacker in some form.
I will believe Isak is a realistic option once it's done. Malyck Fofana is another name I keep seeing.
Gakpo is just a better goal scorer than Diaz and brings a different element. We're going to miss his work rate and tracking back on defense some, but I think Gakpo is more important for this team because he's shown he can really put the ball in the net.
Going for Isak seems insane to me. It's going to cost a ridiculous amount of money and I'm certain Newcastle will drag it out as long as possible. It's not like the current Liverpool management group to splash so much money on a guy over 25 years old. I also feel like this move would inhibit our ability to improve other areas of need (CB and winger, if we lose lucho). Unless we sell Darwin for a massive amount, I don't see how we make this move and still retain the financial fluidity that we need to sustain this run.
What's up with Gakpo? I've been out of touch with reality since Mr Jota's demise.
Peace for Ukraine!
There it is…Luis Diaz to Bayern for 75 million euros. Here we go from Fabrizio. I think it's a great deal for both teams. Liverpool make a profit and Bayern get a guy in his prime tha will do a ton of culture setting for Kompany and set up Kane a ton.
Now we'll see what happens with Isak (just don't know or see it), a wing position and CB.
Really great second half, especially good to see Rio and Nyoni on the score sheet. It's not the end all be all, but they both are going to make it hard to Slot to leave out of the regular season squad. Nyoni might get left out just from a numbers perspective in midfield, but he's ready to play real deal football, and I could see him replacing Curtis Jones as soon as next year.
I totally agree on Nyoni/Jones.
Pretty sloppy performance from the first group. I don't think everyone was giving full effort, but still. Way too wasteful with the ball and the press and counter defense were super disorganized again.
The second group was much better. The difference Macca makes in the middle was immediately obvious. I don't hate Endo as an occasional CB sub. He reads the play very well and is comfortable with the ball at his feet. His height is obviously not ideal for aerial duels, but if we are short on options he is at least passable.
Pretty sloppy performance from the first group. I don't think everyone was giving full effort, but still. Way too wasteful with the ball and the press and counter defense were super disorganized again.
The second group was much better. The difference Macca makes in the middle was immediately obvious. I don't hate Endo as an occasional CB sub. He reads the play very well and is comfortable with the ball at his feet. His height is obviously not ideal for aerial duels, but if we are short on options he is at least passable.
Also, I thought Ekitike had a promising debut. His movement off the ball is really good and you can start to see the skill and creativity he has on the ball.
It's looking more like Sesko may be going to United which would leave Newcastle without any real options to replace Isak. I'm hoping that kills the deal and saves us from ourselves.
I think there are better ways to spend that money.
It's looking more like Sesko may be going to United which would leave Newcastle without any real options to replace Isak. I'm hoping that kills the deal and saves us from ourselves.
I think there are better ways to spend that money.
I didn't watch this game, only followed a bit on my phone with my morning coffee, but I have watched some of the others and agree that the effort level at times from the senior players leaves a lot to be desired. It doesn't bother me a ton but it's a big reason why they guys get beat tracking back, sloppy etc. Also, Lewis Steele reported the other day that they have really ratcheted up the intensity in practice this week, so perhaps some of these guys are a little spent from that and traveling so damn much.
About Mac Allister, I couldn't agree more. It's absolutely insane how good he is and how important he is to this team. He quite literally makes things tick for us across the pitch. Now we come back home for some rest and more hard training until the Community Shield, with Bilbao mixed in as well.
Last thing I'll add is that I think Frimpong won the starting RB gig today. He's just a better player than Bradley when the ball crosses midfield into the opponents half. I think Bradley is the better defender no doubt, but Frimpong is just a more impactful guy with the ball.
About Mac Allister, I couldn't agree more. It's absolutely insane how good he is and how important he is to this team. He quite literally makes things tick for us across the pitch. Now we come back home for some rest and more hard training until the Community Shield, with Bilbao mixed in as well.
Last thing I'll add is that I think Frimpong won the starting RB gig today. He's just a better player than Bradley when the ball crosses midfield into the opponents half. I think Bradley is the better defender no doubt, but Frimpong is just a more impactful guy with the ball.
The head man observed the same thing because he called out the effort level on recovery runs after the game.
I do think this is an overlooked aspect of losing Diaz. Nobody on the team recovered in transition as well as him.
I do think this is an overlooked aspect of losing Diaz. Nobody on the team recovered in transition as well as him.
Almost Adidas time. I wonder if we'll see the official kit drop at midnight England time or later in the day.
I really really hope it's the ones that have been leaked that look like the 06-08 kits. My absolute favorite vintage shirt. Will be lining up on day 1 to get one.
Actually I'm going to wait to make sure Robbo isn't out the door and get one to celebrate that crazy *******'s final year.
Actually I'm going to wait to make sure Robbo isn't out the door and get one to celebrate that crazy *******'s final year.
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