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Liverpool’s recent acquisition of Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen for €35 million (£29.5 million) has sparked discussions about the club’s defensive strategy, particularly regarding how Ibrahima Konate will adapt to partnering with another attack-minded right-back.
Frimpong joins the Reds after a 12 assist and five goals season at Leverkusen.
While his arrival bolsters Liverpool’s right flank, some fans have expressed concerns over whether Konate – already accustomed to covering for Trent Alexander-Arnold’s advanced positioning – will face renewed defensive challenges with another forward-thinking teammate
This comes before Konate s shaky performance in France’s 5-4 Nations League semi-final defeat to Spain on on Thursday evening, where he was criticized for defensive lapses by large swathes of the French media outlets.
Despite these concerns, Konate has publicly welcomed Frimpong and while admitting he is different to Alexander-Arnold , he has “no worries” about playing with the Dutchman
“I think the coach’s instructions to him will be clear because we’ll do lots of video work,” Konate said to the Athletic while on duty with France.
“The fact he’s signed for us means he must have spoken to the coach a lot, so he’ll know what the coach expects from him.”
“It’ll be different with him compared to Trent.
But I’m happy for him.”
“He’s a good person, very funny, and I wish him every happiness at Liverpool when he arrives.
I have no worries about him.”
Frimpong’s versatility – capable of operating as a traditional right-back, wing-back, or even a right winger -offers Slot tactical flexibility, particularly during Mohamed Salah’s anticipated absence for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations
Meanwhile, Frimpong confirmed that he had talks with Arne Slot before the move was official, saying on his announcement day:
“I spoke to the manager a few times,” Frimpong said
“He sounds very positive.
I’ve had good conversations with him.
“I’m really excited [to work with Arne Slot].
Even when I was at [the] national team, some of the Feyenoord boys would tell me about him and be like, ‘He’s the best coach I’ve ever had.’ Things like this.
“So, I’ve always heard good things about the coach?
Now he’s going to be my coach, so I’m excited for that.”
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