Tag: Sadio Mane

Meet AS Monaco’s Lamine Camara: The Rising Star of Senegalese Football

Meet AS Monaco’s Lamine Camara: The Rising Star of Senegalese Football

The Senegal national football team is currently undergoing a transformation following their victory in the African Cup of Nations in 2021.

Since then, Senegal has faced a mix of successes and setbacks. In the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, they were placed in a tough group with the Netherlands, Ecuador, and Qatar, managing to win two out of three group matches.

Everton’s Illiman Ndiaye celebrates scoring for Senegal at the 2022 FIFA World Cup

However, their journey ended in the Round of 16 with a defeat against England, marking a bittersweet conclusion to their campaign.

Although they exited the tournament at the knockout stage, the performance was commendable and instilled pride in Aliou Cissé and his squad. Expectations were high as they approached the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, with many anticipating that they would advance to the later stages once again.

Unfortunately, their campaign took an unexpected turn when they were eliminated in the Round of 16 by the Ivory Coast. The match went to penalties, and despite their earlier promise in the tournament, they were unable to overcome the eventual champions. This early exit was a disappointing surprise for a team many expected to go far.

This transformative period has led to significant shifts in team dynamics and player development. Alongside these changes, a notable managerial transition has occurred, culminating in the departure of Aliou Cisse (BBC Sport), who was at the helm for nearly a decade.

His tenure brought both challenges and triumphs and now, the team embarks on a new chapter, seeking to redefine its identity and direction.

To do that, the squad needs a major overhaul with players such as Sadio Mane, Idrissa Gueye, Nampalys Mendy and Abdoulaye Seck into their twilight years.

Excitingly, this transformation is already in motion. A wave of young and talented players is emerging, showcasing their skills at prominent clubs across Europe. These rising stars are not only making their mark at club level but are also being integrated into the national team, earning their place on the international stage.

Among them, Lamine Camara, the dynamic midfielder from AS Monaco, has begun to capture attention with his impressive performances and growing reputation.

At 20 years of age, Camara has already taken the footballing world by storm on Africa’s biggest stage. His breakout moment came at Senegal’s AFCON triumph in 2022 where he not only claimed the Best Young Player of the Group Stage but also orchestrated the winning penalty in the final, earning him the Man of the Match award.

His tremendous upward trajectory didn’t stop there. He also won the 2023 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations title and earned the 2023 CAF Young Player of the Year award.

Such recognition rewarded him with a move to French Ligue 1 outfit AS Monaco from FC Metz for a transfer fee of €15 million (£12.6m) where he enjoyed a stellar 2023/24 campaign, registering two goals and five assists.

Beyond these statistics, he captivated fans and analysts alike with his remarkable presence in midfield. He combined technical finesse—displaying skilful dribbling, precise passing, and sharp vision—with a robust and tenacious demeanour, marking him out as one of Senegal’s most unique and complete midfield profiles to emerge from the scene over the last decade.

AS Monaco has built a reputation for its strategic approach to the transfer market, effectively identifying and acquiring talented players for modest fees and then selling them for significant profits. Given this track record, it is likely that Camara will not stay at the Louis II Stadium for an extended period. His impressive skill set and potential have attracted the attention of numerous elite clubs across Europe.

As a result, the competition for his services is heating up, suggesting that a transfer may be on the horizon sooner rather than later.

WHO IS LAMINE CAMARA?

Lamine was born in Bignona, located in the south-west of Senegal, where his love for football developed at an early age. He was so passionate about the sport that he often walked around with a ball at his feet.

After convincing his father to support his passion, he began his training at Galaxy FA in Dakar and later moved to Casa Sport in his home region, where he was consistently promoted in his development.

His talent quickly caught the eye and was spotted by a well-renowned football school in the country: AS Génération Foot – a school most famous for developing Sadio Mane before his emergence on the scene.

Génération Foot, a prominent football academy based in Senegal, has established a partnership with FC Metz, a club competing in France’s Ligue 2.

This collaboration has paved the way for young talent to transition to professional football in France. In February 2023, the opportunity arose for him to join the esteemed Lorraine club, taking a significant step in his football career and pursuing his dreams on European soil.

Camara made his much-anticipated debut for FC Metz toward the latter part of the 2022/23 season, entering the match as a substitute in a commanding 3-0 victory against Bordeaux. This initial appearance marked the beginning of his journey with the club, showcasing his potential to contribute to the team’s success.

During the subsequent season, Camara solidified his position within the first team, demonstrating his growth and skill on the field.

One of his standout moments came in October 2023 when he netted his first goal for FC Metz against his current employers AS Monaco, where he executed an extraordinary long-range strike from his own half—a goal that showcased not only his technical ability but also his huge confidence on the ball.

Despite the team suffering a 2-1 defeat in that match, Camara’s goal made a lasting impression not only on Metz but Monaco who would go on to sign him for the 2024/25 campaign after appearing in 31 of 38 league games and proving a notable success for Metz despite their relegation to Ligue 2.

The Senegalese international has swiftly begun to leave his mark at his new club, dazzling fans and teammates alike with his impressive skills on the field. As of now, he has already netted three goals and provided one assist, demonstrating his remarkable ability to contribute to the team’s success.

He’s fast becoming a household name for Senegal too, not only establishing himself as a first-team regular but making telling contributions at the highest levels, most notably at the last Africa Cup of Nations in January, scoring twice against Gambia in their opening group game, the second an absolute pearler from outside the box in a comfortable 3-0 win for the Senegalese.

These early achievements suggest that the £12.6 million spent on his transfer could be just a fraction of his true value and might turn out to be a fantastic bargain for the club.

Furthermore, in line with AS Monaco’s strategic transfer policy, there is a growing sense of optimism within the corridors of the Louis II Stadium that Camara could eventually command a transfer fee that is three times the original amount invested, highlighting his immense potential and appeal in the football market.

WHAT IS CAMARA’S STYLE OF PLAY?

At the age of 20, Camara is emerging as a well-rounded and sophisticated player, showcasing a level of completeness in his game that is often hard to find among athletes of his age.

He is incredibly versatile, capable of performing roles as a combative #6 in a pivot, a swashbuckling and dynamic #8 or even as a creative and imaginative outlet in the same role.

He combines an impressive work ethic and industry with technical prowess and exceptional physical attributes. This combination makes him an invaluable asset to any team, whether they prioritize maintaining possession of the ball or preferring to utilize a counter-attacking strategy.

It’s why he became a key figure for FC Metz throughout his time at the club but already in a more advanced style of play and environment at AS Monaco, he’s thriving due to his tremendous tactical understanding and intelligence.

His versatility shines through in various match scenarios, demonstrating that he is comfortable in both controlling the tempo of the game and adapting to more dynamic situations.

Having already earned 23 caps with the Senegalese national team, Camara has proven his ability to compete at higher levels, reflecting both his individual talent and his capacity to contribute to his team’s success in any context.

Defensive screening, solidity & Awareness

Like during his tenure at FC Metz, Camara is strategically positioned as a crucial component of the midfield pivot for AS Monaco, usually alongside the experienced former Juventus player and Chelsea loanee, Denis Zakaria.

In this role, he is entrusted with the vital task of safeguarding the Monaco defence, acting as a protective barrier against opposing attacks. Beyond this defensive responsibility, Camara is also charged with the important duty of facilitating ball retention, even in high-pressure situations. His ability to maintain composure allows him to navigate challenges and effectively transition the play into more advanced attacking positions, providing essential support in moving the team forward.

First and foremost, his most standout quality is his defensive prowess. He is a tenacious ball-winner in the middle of the park, displaying excellent positional awareness and the ability to break up opposition attacks. His tackling is clean and effective, often winning duels without committing unnecessary fouls. He is particularly effective at intercepting passes, reading the game, and stepping in front of opposing attackers to disrupt the flow of play.

For instance, in the image below, Camara comes up against LOSC Lille’s tricky and exciting winger Edon Zhegrova out wide…

The Senegalese international does superbly well to match the Kosovan’s pace and acceleration. Where most defenders get left behind in their wake, Camara reads what the winger is going to do next…

…before successfully committing himself to the tackle and knocking the ball out for a throw-in.

At just 20 years old, he stands at 6’0″, which may not make him the tallest player on the field.

However, what he lacks in height, he more than makes up for with his remarkable agility and leg reach. His long, powerful strides enable him to match the pace of even the quickest opponents, allowing him to close gaps and cut off passing lanes with ease.

Additionally, his exceptional coordination and timing equip him to execute precise and combative tackles, effectively disrupting the flow of the game and thwarting opponents’ attempts to advance the ball. His physical presence and athleticism make him a formidable force on the field.

In another instance, AS Monaco’s midfield shape is stretched and one simple pass could allow their opponents an easy route to goal…

…Camara, however, positions himself excellently at the last moment…

… disrupts the play…

…intercepts the pass…

…and more crucially, gets his team on the attack.

The Senegalese international so far this campaign averages 3.1 tackles per game, 1.4 interceptions, 5.6 balls recovered and is dribbled past only 1.1 times per game [SofaScore] from only eight starts highlighting his all-action and combative style in the middle of the park.

Furthermore, he ranks in the top six per cent of midfield players in Europe’s top-five leagues for balls recovered per 90, the top ten per cent for tackles won per 90 and the top 21 per cent for tackles + interceptions per 90, as per FBRef.

Camara is tactically astute for his age. He knows when to press and when to hold his position, understanding his role within a defensive setup, whether it’s defending in a high press or a mid-to-low defensive block.

In any of those setups, it is crucially important for any team to have a midfield outlet capable of covering large spaces, is dynamic to get himself about but more importantly, to dominate his zones, having the readiness and presence of mind to anticipate the opponent’s actions.

Camara’s reading of the game allows him to predict opposition moves and react accordingly, making him a key player in Monaco’s midfield structure.

However, the Senegalese talent does tend to struggle defending wide spaces, hence why he cannot play in a lone #6 role, but a coach would certainly be nullifying his best attributes if deploying him there, he’s better when marauding forward.

Passing, poise and progression

While Camara’s standout attributes consist of him winning back possession for his team and his tremendous dynamism in midfield, his ability on the ball cannot be understated or dismissed – it is arguably his best attribute.

Camara’s ball skills are equally noteworthy; he possesses a keen vision for the game and an impressive ability to execute precise passes but only making note of his flexible and octopus limbs when it comes to his ball-winning does his physical qualities a disservice…

His dribbling confidence allows him to navigate through tight spaces, creating opportunities for his teammates and helping to maintain possession during crucial moments. This combination of attributes not only showcases his all-around midfield prowess but also emphasizes his importance as a driving force when approaching the final third.

It is why he can be an effective and influential component further forward on the pitch, as a box-to-box outlet or even as an advanced and imaginative #8.

Before we delve into that, it’s essential to discuss the evolving role of midfielders in modern football, particularly regarding their ability to control and distribute the ball during play. Today’s managers demand that midfielders be proficient not only when they are in possession but also in how they navigate tight, pressurized situations.

In the modern game, a midfielder’s effectiveness is often determined by their skill in receiving the ball on the half-turn under pressure or utilising bounce passes as a tool to move the opposition’s pressing structure and evade it.

The best midfielders are adept at evading defensive pressure; they utilize body feints, quick touches, and sharp footwork to slip away from opponents. Once they have evaded pressure, their next critical task is to progress the ball into attacking areas, often transitioning the play seamlessly into the final third of the field.

This combination of skills—vision, technique, and composure under pressure—defines top-tier midfielders and is vital for a team’s overall success, as it facilitates successful ball progression to create scoring opportunities through concise, imaginative and coordinated patterns of play.

Camara is superbly adept at receiving the ball with his back to goal, on the half-turn and finding a telling pass to evade an opponent’s high-press.

As shown in the image below, Camara (BLUE) receives the ball from his defender in a pressurised scenario, with his back to goal…

…although the opposition’s press turns out to be passive at best, Camara still has the presence of mind even when surrounded by the opposition to receive on the half-turn and progress the ball to a more advanced teammate (RED) in the middle third.

In another instance, the 23-time Senegal international uses exceptional football and body feint to evade pressure.

Camara receives a pass from his defender on the half-turn…

…faced with an onrushing opponent armed and ready to dispossess him in his defensive third and an attacker behind him.

Many of his peers could be guilty of taking one too many touches in this instance, becoming hesitant and succumbing to the opponent’s press, but not the 20-year-old dynamo.

Camara drops a shoulder and feints his body to his left to fool his opponent…

…before manipulating the ball to his right with his right foot and evading the tight scenario with tremendous ease and class.

Getting out of that pressure then allows Camara to get the ball to his teammate through the lines and up against the opposition’s back four.

Camara serves as an explosive ball carrier, although he tends to sometimes be caught in possession for lack of strength when engaged, nothing that physical conditioning wouldn’t solve over time. His heat map (SofaScore) so far this season reflects his effectiveness and industry all across the pitch, as well as a willingness to engage in all phases of play.

The 20-year-old also possesses an excellent passing range, picking up the ball in space and performing long switches to locate other avenues of the attacking third and an opposition block his team can exploit.

So far this season in Ligue 1, he’s successfully completed 75% of his long balls at a rate of 2.7 per game (SofaScore). Also, as per FBRef, he ranks in the top 9% of midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues for switches per 90 highlighting his bravery in possession and the rate at which he takes responsibility for his team’s progression.

Deceptive creator

So far this season, Camara has also been a significant contributor for AS Monaco in Ligue 1, in the final third averaging 1.6 key passes per game.

This impressive stat highlights his dual effectiveness; he not only excels in the middle third of the pitch but also showcases his ability to impact the game in the final third, where his deceptively good vision and quickness of mind leads to decisive plays when creating goal-scoring opportunities.

His versatility in that respect makes him a strategic asset for the team, as he can adapt to various roles on the field. This unique skill set is particularly valuable, not just for Monaco, but also for his national team, where such a jack-of-all-trades profile is increasingly rare and desirable.

It’s no wonder Transfermarkt has also marked out another one of his positions in the midfield as a #10. We’ve already seen his qualities in the role for Senegal, showcasing his nimble and small-space qualities at the last Africa Cup of Nations, registering two goals, and averaging 1.7 key passes per game.

When getting into the attacking third, and given the license to roam into it, Camara is tremendous at finding spaces in between the opposition’s defence and midfield, threading through balls and linking up with his teammates.

In one instance for Senegal during the Africa Cup of Nations group stage fixture against fellow giants Cameroon, the 20-year-old is found in a dangerous position to exploit…

He has two options, one of them Sadio Mane on the left…

…Camara picks out the former Liverpool with a well-timed pass in space and clean through on goal…

Mane fails to convert the opportunity due to good defending from Cameroon but it is a move/situation which certainly shows the quality of Camara’s decision-making at that split-second moment.

The AS Monaco dynamo is tremendous when making lambasting runs into the box or just outside it. As stated previously, he knows where to be in such situations to create goalscoring opportunities.

The first of his two goals against Gambia at AFCON is a perfect example…

Once Crystal Palace’s Ismaila Sarr receives a line-breaking pass, the 20-year-old again has the presence of mind and awareness to exploit a gap in Gambia’s defence and makes a stunning movement to receive the pass…

…before showcasing his tremendous ball-striking to find the bottom corner with a lovely low-piercing drive.

His second goal was even better, calling for a pass outside the D before placing a wonderful curling effort over the keeper and into the top corner.

These goals certainly show Camara has the nous and qualities to get into the right positions from his box-to-box midfield role and contribute to attacking moves, meaning he can certainly add more goals and assists to his game.

Despite the above scenarios, Camara can be guilty of some rash moments not just in the final third but deep in his own half but with fine-tuning and refined coaching, those deficiencies will certainly be ironed out in due time – it’s incredible to remember, he’s only 20 but already encompasses a well-roundness in his game that belies his tender years.

What does the future hold for Camara?

The Diouloulou-born maestro’s all-around prowess will firmly place him among the elite midfielders in the years to come, making it increasingly likely that AS Monaco will struggle to keep him after this season or even the next. This season is his first also playing elite-level football in the UEFA Champions League so his experience in that respect will take him very far.

Camara is an outstanding football operator renowned for his exceptional close control of the ball, which allows him to navigate tight spaces effortlessly – elements which aren’t known to be associated with many African footballers.

His quick thinking and ability to make decisions under pressure set him apart, enabling him to maintain possession even when faced with aggressive defending. He possesses a remarkable capacity for deception, using feints and body movements to mislead opponents, all while remaining composed in challenging situations.

Moreover, Camara stands out as a relentless workhorse when his team is out of possession. His understanding of the game is unparalleled; he reads the flow of play astutely, anticipating the movements of both teammates and opponents. This allows him to engage effectively in individual duels, showcasing remarkable mental resilience and physical agility.

His ability to track opponents is noteworthy; his long strides and impressive speed allow him to close down spaces quickly, making it difficult for rivals to find openings. He often tackles opponents from their blind side, catching them off guard, and his interception skills are exceptional, allowing him to step in and break up plays. This includes making crucial interceptions that even his defensive-minded international teammate, Gueye, may find difficult to achieve.

Overall, Camara’s combination of technical skill, tactical awareness, and relentless work ethic makes him a flawless asset to any team, so don’t be surprised to see an elite European side make their interest in him official beyond this season.

He’s got all the ingredients necessary to become one of the best of his generation and arguably the best talent Senegal have seen since Sadio Mane burst on to the scene ten years ago.

The only way is up for Lamine Camara. Watch this space.

Luis Diaz: Liverpool’s new Colombian showstopper

Luis Diaz: Liverpool’s new Colombian showstopper

With the immediate futures of Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah up in the air, Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool were always gonna have at the back of their minds, players who could come in immediately and potentially replace them in the long-term.

In such a whirlwind month of transfers, Liverpool were going to sit tight until the summer before adding to their attacking roster. Several players were on their radar, such as Jonathan David from Lille, Leeds United’s Raphinha and RB Salzburg’s high-flying wonderkid Karim Adeyemi.

Though, one player who has long been on their list of targets was FC Porto’s Luis Diaz, but the Columbia international’s release clause of €80million (£66.6million) was viewed as excessive.

However, when Tottenham Hotspur were scouring around their target, opening talks with his agents and attempting to secure his signature, Liverpool immediately thought now was the time to pounce – an opportunity they could not afford to miss.

It was now or never for the club, and the owners Fenway Sports Group funded and sanctioned the move. Liverpool will reportedly pay around €45 million (£37.5million) initially with a further €15 million (£12.5 million) to follow in add-ons.

The 25-year-old winger is enjoying an outstandingly productive season in the Portuguese top-flight, scoring 14 goals and providing four assists in 18 league appearances. In all competitions this term, he has netted 16 in 28 appearances.

Jurgen Klopp has long been an admirer of the live-wire forward but Diaz further enhanced his reputation as one of Europe’s most devastating wingers through his performances against Klopp’s Liverpool and AC Milan during this season’s UEFA Champions League group stage.

Many of the Liverpool faithful will have a rough idea of who Luis Diaz is and how he plays through trawling the internet for compilation videos of his best work. Fans desiring to see how good he is, will certainly have been satisfied with what they have seen.

Born in the town of Barrancas in the north of Colombia, Diaz caught the eye of scouts with his performances in the Indigenous Copa America in Chile in 2015. He grew up as part of the Wayuu, an ethnic group of the Guajira Peninsula, which juts out into the southern Caribbean. Diaz was coached at the tournament by former Colombia international Carlos Valderrama.

A successful trial with Atletico Junior in the nearby city of Barranquilla followed and after signing he was sent to their feeder club, Barranquilla FC, in the country’s second tier.

Those who knew him well then recall a boy who was “ridiculously skinny”. Suffering from malnutrition, he was put on a special plan to help him gain 10 kilos. Slowly he bulked up and was handed his senior debut against Deportivo Pereira in April 2016. 

After two seasons with Barranquilla, things really took off when Diaz became a permanent fixture in the senior squad at parent club Junior in 2017.

A fearless winger blessed with tremendous pace, he handled the step up seamlessly, scoring 20 goals in 80 games for the top-flight outfit in the next three campaigns.

After shining for Colombia at under-20s level, Diaz earned his first senior cap against Argentina in September 2018.

He now boasts a record of seven goals in 31 games for his country and was the joint top scorer with Lionel Messi, with four goals, in last summer’s Copa America when Colombia finished third.

Capable of producing moments of breathtaking brilliance, Diaz has taken over the mantle from former Everton star James Rodriguez as the main man his nation looks to for attacking inspiration and creativity.

FC Porto paid €7 million to sign him from Junior in July 2019 on a five-year contract. He was also pursued by Russian giants Zenit Saint Petersburg but countrymen Radamel Falcao and Rodriguez, both former Porto stars, helped convince him to pick the Estadio do Dragao over the Russian club. In total, he has scored 41 goals in 125 games in Portugal.

Luis Diaz is a true live-wire, a player blessed with unstoppable pace, acceleration, trickery, dazzling feet and tremendous power. Technically adept, tactically wise and a pure nightmare for opposing defenders. Just when Liverpool fans had though they’d had enough of that through Diogo Jota, Sadio Mane and Mo Salah, Diaz will add a little sprinkle of South American dust to an enthralling potential forward line.

The 25-year-old’s ability to beat opposition players, to cut inside and finish on either foot or assist his teammates are the hallmarks of his exceptional game making him an exciting talent.

Part of Diaz’s brilliance is that he can play off either foot, so he is extremely hard for defenders to shackle off the ball. Once he sets off with the ball at his feet, he is simply unplayable, attacking open spaces and leaving defenders in his wake.

His favourite move is cutting in off the left and scoring with his right foot, as he has done to such consummate effect for Porto and Colombia. What’s so unique about his game is that he can go either way when taking on his markers, if the defenders feel they can halt his progress coming inside, he is just as devastating going on to his weaker foot. Throughout his career, Diaz has mastered the art of becoming effective on both feet.

Take the two following images for example:

He receives the ball on his right foot, shaping up to cut in and shoot with the same foot, which the defender also expects him to do…

…however, he does the complete opposite, shifting the ball onto his left foot netting Porto’s equaliser to such devastating and consummate effect.

This example proves just how good he is at taking on his man, and being able to perform many various actions with the ball. He isn’t a one-trick pony, but a player blessed with such fine balance, quickness of feet, technique and ball control to fool his marker 9 times out of 10.

His ability off the ball is just as impressive, capable of playing on the last man and timing his runs to perfection. This season, Diaz has managed to mix up his game meaning there are many facets to how he scores and creates. His versatility is also demonstrated in the way he is able to get into the box and score with headers — a knack that his new Anfield teammates Diogo Jota, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane all possess.

Diaz has also shown he is capable of playing in a number of systems but that’s mainly because of the tactical and creative freedom he is afforded. He is regularly deployed on the left in Porto’s 4-4-2 shape, but can also play in Klopp’s 4-3-3 system too, one used by his nation Columbia.

With Klopp providing Mane, Jota and Salah the freedom and responsibility to provide his team with the attacking prowess, Diaz will also be given such liberty in the German’s high-intensity style which suits his game to a tee.

Diaz is enjoying his most prolific season — 0.85 non-penalty goals per 90 is up from 0.32 per 90 on average in the previous two seasons. He’s getting into better areas more consistently. In fact, he compares well to Mo Salah (0.81) and tops Diogo Jota (0.58) – Liverpool’s top two scorers – in such statistics.

The Colombian has scored 29 per cent of Porto’s league goals, underlining his importance to the team. Opta stats shows that his 14 league goals have come from an impressive 12.3 xG.

His shot selection has evidently improved, with far more inside the box this season compared to 2020-21. His xG per shot has nearly doubled from 0.12 last season to 0.20. Simply put, the average probability of his shots resulting in a goal has gone from 12 per cent to 20 per cent. This all shows how much of a potent force Liverpool will be adding to their weaponry, providing Luis Diaz quickly gets up to speed in the Premier League, which under Klopp, will be sure to occur.

Also, a particular component Liverpool fans will surely be excited by is Diaz’ incredible propensity to nutmeg his opponents when taking them on. In the past year across Europe’s top five leagues, as per StatsBomb via FBref, Diaz is listed in the top seven per cent of wingers and attacking midfielders for the number of nutmegs completed.

A skill that sums up the Columbian’s devastating pool of individual abilities. His speed combined with such unerring close control, balance, power and technique all helps make him the master of dribbling. Mo Salah will certainly have a strong competitor in the art of the dribble. He is difficult to read for defenders as shown above.

So how will he fit in at Anfield?

It’s evidently clear he will be lining up amongst any of the three attacking positions, most likely on the left but more importantly, Diaz will provide greater depth as he competes with Mohamed Salah, Mane, Jota, Firmino and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain for a starting spot in the front three.

It is the long-term implications of the Luis Diaz move that seems intriguing, and that’s due to the uncertainty in the contract situations of both Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah. Liverpool knew they had to act fast in case the worst did happen in terms of losing either of their trio of stars this summer. Purchasing Diaz seemed the perfect plausible decision.

If no extension is agreed with them then Liverpool will either have to cash in or run the risk of losing them for nothing in 2023, and that is a scenario Klopp will not be looking to entertain.

Liverpool have been tracking Diaz’s progress since his time with Junior in his homeland. That interest went up a level last summer after his eye-catching displays at the Copa America.

Through an array of scouting reports and character references, they built up an extensive analysis of his technical and tactical ability, as well as his strong mentality. Like Salah and Mane, he has scored at the rate of a centre-forward despite operating out wide and there’s a belief he’s the perfect fit for Liverpool, style-wise.

Luis Diaz is a showstopper, a player you’d be desperate to buy tickets for. In the event of either Salah or Mane leaving, Liverpool fans could rest well knowing they have the perfect replacement.

Having only turned 25 on January, Diaz is also in keeping with the club’s strategy of investing in players with a high ceiling who are yet to enter their peak years.

Klopp has often talked about wanting to unearth the next star of world football rather than buying the finished article. Liverpool believe Diaz has huge potential, and there is no reason why the Columbian can’t become one of the world stars under Klopp’s tutelage like his new teammates Salah and Mane.

For now though, the Anfield faithful will be welcoming their new South American star on the block with open arms.

What do Liverpool need this summer to reclaim their Premier League crown?

What do Liverpool need this summer to reclaim their Premier League crown?

Despite Liverpool’s resurgence at the end of the 2020/21 campaign, securing a Champions League place and winning eight of their last 10 games after a disappointing home defeat to Fulham at the start of March, its safe to conclude that Jurgen Klopp’s side fell well short of their lofty expectations.

They still managed to finish third in the table 17 points behind champions Manchester City, but after winning the title the previous campaign, Liverpool underwent arguably the worst Premier League title defence of any champion of the past. There’s a whole host of excuses for Liverpool’s sudden demise: the amount of injuries suffered especially to key figures such as Virgil Van Dijk & Joe Gomez for much of the campaign. Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, Joel Matip also spent spells on the sidelines which didn’t help Klopp’s cause.

Also, the absence of fans at Anfield due to the never-ending coronavirus pandemic causing unnecessary panic towards Liverpool’s ambitions undergoing eight home games without a win between January and April, losing six of in a row – three of them to some of the so called ‘smaller clubs’. Burnley, Brighton and Fulham all tasted unprecedented victories at Anfield further plummeting Liverpool’s season to a sure state of undeniable failure.

Liverpool’s tremendous away form towards the latter part of the campaign certainly got them reaching towards that coveted Champions League spot but while Manchester City comfortably soared towards a third Premier League title in four years, Jurgen Klopp and his side were left licking their salty wounds. By their lofty standards, it was a poor campaign in truth with many of their stars underperforming and faltering at the sheer weight of expectation.

Sadio Mane, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Roberto Firmino to name a few, but Jurgen Klopp will certainly be working extra hard this summer in making sure that his side right those wrongs, aiming to get back to the same levels of consistency, intensity and siege mentality that brought them to unparalleled greatness during the 2019/20 campaign.

Now these question will be ringing in Jurgen Klopp’s ears; how will he get his side to those peerless levels again? What does his squad need to match Manchester City for next season? How will he rebuild this squad to reclaim their Premier League crown?

These questions will need addressing, and there’s no doubt that Jurgen Klopp’s squad needs a major overhaul if they are to match Manchester City but also more importantly trump the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea and Leicester City who will also be looking to strengthen their squads ahead of the new season.

So which areas of the squad do Liverpool need to address?

In goal, Adrian has recently signed a new deal so Klopp will have no worries about his options in goal with number one Alisson in talks to extend his contract at Anfield. Highly-rated young goalkeeper, Caoimhin Kelleher will be sent out on loan to further his development according to various reports.

At centre-back, Liverpool are well stocked after the summer signing of Ibrahima Kounate from RB Leipzig. Virgil Van Dijk and Joe Gomez will be back from the long injury spells, also Joel Matip. Klopp also has Nathaniel Phillips and January signing Ben Davies to call up on too.

So what areas of the squad do Liverpool need to address this summer heading into the forthcoming season?

Adequate cover for Trent Alexander-Arnold?

According to the BBC, Liverpool would reluctantly be willing to sell highly-rated right-back Neco Williams, with a minimum asking price of around £10m which seems a strange decision. Williams is highly thought of at Anfield, and has been earmarked for a big future in the future, and more importantly seems a fair candidate to challenge Trent Alexander-Arnold for a starting spot at right-back.

If this is the case, then Klopp can’t arrive into next season with no cover for Trent AA. So who could he look to?

Max Aarons, Norwich

Despite Norwich’s promotion to the Barclays Premier League once again, its about time their wonderfully gifted full-back Max Aarons tests himself at a much bigger club. According to Sky Sources, Tottenham, Manchester United and Everton have all expressed an interest in signing the right-back and if Liverpool are looking for quality to add to their squad, then they can look no further than putting their name in the ring for the 21-year-old.

Max Aarons is amongst the most gifted young full-backs in the country and an England Under-21 international star. Not only will he boost Liverpool’s homegrown quota, but he’d provide serious competition to Trent Alexander-Arnold. Any sort of dip in form from the England international will allow Aarons to slot right in.

Despite his small frame and build, Aarons is a superb athlete, a real force of nature when he drives forward down the right-flank. A tremendous ball-carrier, pacey, and a player blessed with excellent vision. Aarons has proven a key outlet for Norwich in attack, evidently shown in registering 2 goals and 2 assists last season, and 2 goals and 6 assists during the 2018/19 campaign. It certainly isn’t Trent Alexander-Arnold type statistics but Aarons still offers plenty going forward. His understanding with the now departed Emiliano Buendia was a key weapon in Daniel Farke’s system, and there’s no reason why Aarons can’t have the same impact at a higher level.

Norwich are believed to be holding out for around £30m for the full-back which Liverpool may be unwilling to pay but the potential and abilities Aarons holds means he’ll be worth every single penny. It’s a move that many of the top six clubs would be silly to ignore.

Noussair Mazraoui, Ajax

Ajax full-back Noussair Mazraoui is certainly on his way to becoming a top-level right-back if he isn’t one currently. The 23-year-old is already attracting a lot of interest from a whole host of top clubs around Europe, especially Arsenal.

Mazraoui, 23, has been in excellent form for Ajax ever since he broke into the first team. Still largely young, the Morocco international surpassed 100 appearances for Erik Ten Hag’s side towards the end of the 20-21 campaign. But now, he has entered the last 12 months of his contract. The Moroccan international could represent smart business for any side lacking capable right-backs.

Ajax value Mazraoui at £14.5million, and there is belief that the club could settle for less than that figure which constitutes are bargain for a tremendously gifted footballer.

Mazraoui is an excellent defender, first and foremost. He is quick, switched on and defensively sound. Rather than being an attacking right-back that gets goals and assists, he focuses more on protecting his own goal. But he is still more than adept at getting forward and contributing in the final third. His relatively lean frame means he’s perfectly capable of imposing himself both defensively and offensively and especially in the air defending crosses.

The Moroccan doesn’t record as much goal contributions as Trent AA does but playing with top level forwards like Mo Salah and Sadio Mane will only increase his output. Though, what stands out in his game is his defensive contribution. He’s a very good defender. In the Champions League last season, he recorded 3.2 tackles per game, 2.3 interceptions and 2.5 clearances meaning he is capable of aiding his team to become defensively sound. In the Dutch Eredivisie, he’s averaged 1.8 tackles, and 1.5 interceptions highlighting his ability to triumph in his ground duels.

These are areas in which Trent Alexander-Arnold can improve on. He only averaged 1.4 tackles, and 1.3 interceptions which is still impressive, however, Liverpool suffered greatly in defence last season and Trent’s deficiencies towards his own goal also played a role in their demise. It’s clear Mazroaui will improve Liverpool’s defensive problems, but he’d also look much better sitting alongside Virgil Van Dijk and Joe Gomez.

Ridle Baku, Wolfsburg

Ever since his move from Mainz last summer, Ridle Baku has progressed superbly under the tutelage of Oliver Glasner at Wolfsburg. The right-sided midfielder, come right-back is an incredibly astute, tactically aware and all-round footballer.

The young right-back was an influential piece in the Germany U21 side that won the European Championship in June and as a result, is already attracting significant interest from clubs around Europe. Baku was named Player of the Match in the final against Portugal and even concluded the tournament with the highest assists (3). In the 38 appearances Baku made for German side Wolfsburg, he recorded an impressive 16 goal involvements, recording 6 goals and 6 assists in the German Bundesliga.

The 1.76m-tall defender, who can even be deployed as a midfielder, leads the ranking for the Bundesliga with 1,061 sprints. Few players have covered a greater distance in the ongoing season than him. He is currently the 10th-best runner with 351 km run on the field.

Baku is highly versatile too having already played in all possible positions on the right-flank for the team. He’d prove a valuable asset for Jurgen Klopp owing to his incredible versatility but also providing his side with the opportunity to be tactically flexible. Wherever, he is deployed Ridle Baku will give his all.

In the 2020/21 campaign, Baku recorded a Goals/Assists ratio of 0.19/0.22 per 90 minutes. Compared to other Premier League full backs, it was pretty impressive.

Liverpool’s Trent Alexander Arnold and Andrew Robertson’s G/A ratio was 0.06/0.21 and 0.03/0.19. The Wolfsburg full back also recorded superior figures to Arsenal’s Kieran Tierney and Chelsea’s Ben Chilwell. It’s important to remember that Baku is far from the finished article and that’s a good thing.

He still has four years remaining on his current contract so Wolfsburg will command an astronomical fee to release him, however there’s no reason why Liverpool cannot express there interest.

Gini Wijnaldum Replacement?

Liverpool sadly waved goodbye to Dutch midfield maestro Gini Wijnaldum who completed to his move to Paris Saint-Germain earlier this month. The 30-year-old midfielder will be tough to replace at Anfield after his enthralling, consistent and dominant performances throughout his career for Liverpool.

All good things must come to end though, as did Wijnaldum’s time at Anfield, and it was time he moved onto pastures new, which means Jurgen Klopp may already be scouting the marker for potential replacements if needed. Liverpool are quite stocked in midfield with Fabinho, Thiago, Jordan Henderson, Naby Keita, James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and highly-rated wonderkid Curtis Jones.

Oxlade-Chamberlain and Keita’s futures are uncertain as well as the evergreen James Milner who will turn 36 in January, it certainly wouldn’t hurt for Jurgen Klopp to be sounding out potential additions to replace Wijnaldum, but who could they be looking at?

Florian Neuhaus, Borussia Monchengladbach

Liverpool have reportedly scouted German international Florian Neuhaus extensively over the past few months, and rightly so. The midfielder could represent the perfect replacement for Wijnaldum, seeing as he offers the same amount of effort, energy and style as the Dutch captain. Technically excellent, Neuhaus has been a mainstay in the Gladbach side putting in some impressive and consistent performances throughout his time at Borussia Park.

The 24-year-old will certainly need time to adapt to the physical demands of English football, but he’s a very smart and brainy footballer, one who commonly uses his head just as much as his feet. Neuhaus has been commonly referred to as a Klopp-type midfielder because of his tremendous stamina, all-action style, technical excellence and the ability to break into the final third and create chances as well as score goals.

Over the past three seasons, Neuhaus hasn’t missed a single game to injury. During that period he’s made a total of 95 Bundesliga appearances, contributing 13 goals and 19 assists. He’s also got Champions League experience meaning he wouldn’t need too much bedding in especially when playing in Europe.

Neuhaus’ statistics underlines his penchant for progressive carrying of the ball and passing from deep. In Europe’s top-five leagues, only Aston Villa’s John McGinn and Valencia’s Carlos Soler did so more often over the course of last season. Per90, Neuhaus averaged 6.44 progressive carries of the ball driving his team up the pitch in search of goals and 5.81 progressive passes. He’s got tremendous vision, superb range of passing and an outstanding awareness of where his teammates are across the final third. He averaged 4.85 passes into the final third, indicative of his creative abilities.

6 goals and 5 assists from 33 Bundesliga is impressive numbers considering where he is deployed in the team, and could offer the same amount of goal threat at Anfield. He’s a proficient player, rarely loses the ball, ever-reliable and a tough tackler and dueler when he needs to be, averaging 3.30 tackles + interceptions per90. He’s a player built in the Klopp-mould.

Renato Sanches, LOSC Lille

If ever a top-tier side needs an all-action midfielder then they should look no further than Portugal and Lille midfielder Renato Sanches. A superb all-round performer who has risen from the rubble with such tremendous grace and determination.

After a difficult spell at Swansea in the Premier League on-loan from Bayern Munich, Sanches has placed his career on an upward trajectory once again after his move to France in 2019, helping the club to their first French title in 10 years. Renato Sanches was central to Lille’s success last season, showcasing his tactical flexibility and astuteness as well as his superb understanding of the positions he’s been given the responsibility to perform in. Sanches has lined up in central midfield, right-midfield, on the left and as a defensive midfielder owing much to his incredible versatility.

The Portuguese international is very much in the mould of Wijnaldum without the penchant to score goals – he only scored once in Ligue 1 last season but his contributions go beyond his abilities in front of goal. He’s still ridiculously creative, averaging 7.23 final third passes, 6.81 progressive passes and 1.28 key passes. He holds incredible vision, ball control, tenacity, tactical nous and a strength belying his small frame. Sanches thrives under pressure, or in tight areas using his superb technical qualities and swift change of movement to evade markers with such consummate ease.

His performance against France at Euro 2020 is a fine example. He deserves another shot in the English-top flight, and Liverpool need another all-action Klopp-type midfielder and Renato Sanches fits the bill perfectly.

Wildcard: Houssem Aouar, Lyon

(Photo by Marcio Machado/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)

Liverpool are gonna need an injection of creativity in midfield due to the loss of Gini Wijnaldum, and there’s potentially no better option out there in Europe than Lyon’s creative maestro Houssem Aouar.

The Frenchman is indeed a wildcard seeing as Liverpool haven’t been interested in his services in the past, but a player of Aouar’s ability and pedigree means any of England’s top clubs cannot afford to pass on the opportunity of recruiting this extremely talented young midfielder. At times last season – even with Gini Wijnaldum in the team, Klopp’s men lacked imagination and that injection of magic needed when breaking down low blocks, especially in their home defeats to Fulham, Brighton and Burnley.

Much of last season, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino were below-par and instead they relied on the brilliance of Mohammed Salah to recue them out of trouble. In order to match Manchester City, Liverpool are gonna need creativity from midfield again and Houssem Aouar provides that much needed impetus. A footballer blessed with the ability to work his magic in tight areas and create opportunities in an instant, Aouar is simply stunning to watch when he’s full flow.

Aouar may not be the all-action, Klopp-type midfielder but he’s a luxury player all top clubs should have in their squad. As soon as he’s got the ball in dangerous areas – imagine him picking up a Thiago pass breaking the lines of play – he’ll make something happen, whether its a sublime through ball, a swift change movement to evade pressure or a pearl of a shot into the back of the net, he is a player built to excite and offer highlight reels. Anfield needs that wow-factor again after such a difficult campaign last season.

Seven goals, three assist in what was a bright campaign for Lyon, Aouar certainly holds the capabilities in front of goal. He averaged 1.87 key passes, 4.39 final third passes and 5.10 shot-creating actions per 90 highlighting his ruthless nous in the final third. After a failed move to the Premier League last year, and Lyon’s financial strains this time round, the club would be more than willing to allow Aouar to finally depart the club. Liverpool should throw their name in the ring.

Another Attacker Alongside Mane, Salah and Jota?

Xherdan Shaqiri, Divock Origi, Takumi Minamino & Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain are all likely to be moved on this summer to free-up funds to improve their attacking options. It’s abundantly clear, Liverpool can no longer solely rely on Roberto Firmino to be their only ‘striker’ in the squad. The Brazilian’s influence is on the wane, and hasn’t hit double figures for goals since he notched 12 Premier League goals during the 2018/19 campaign.

While Mane and Jota will be expected to improve their own goal returns next season, Jurgen Klopp won’t be criticized for scouring the market to find another potent goalscorer, who can share the load with Mo Salah. The club haven’t possessed a devastating number 9 for quite a while now, in fact, they haven’t needed one but if Klopp is to take Liverpool’s game to the next level, a out-an-out striker may well be required…

Donyell Malen, PSV Eindhoven

According to various reports, Liverpool have opened talks with PSV Eindhoven over a potential transfer for Dutch international striker Donyell Malen.

A former Arsenal academy player, Malen has forged a super career back in his homeland, swiftly becoming one of the most potent strikers in Europe. PSV signed him back in 2017, and after a year spent developing in the B team, he has richly blossomed in the Eredivisie.

Since his first team debut in 2018, Malen has hit 55 goals in 116 games for the Dutch giants, also providing 24 assists. He regularly features as a centre forward for PSV but can also play on the left-wing in required. Liverpool aren’t the only club on his radar with Borussia Dortmund and ex-club Arsenal also believed to be interested in his talented services.

Malen has proven he has what it takes to perform at the top level, and its probably about time he’s move on to pastures new. The 22-year-old is ruthlessly quick, but more importantly a devastating finishing and fine creator. He hit 19 goals and 8 assists in the Dutch Eredivisie last campaign, and 27 in all competitions.

He’s a very direct, pacey and agile forward mixed with an excellent blend of nimble, electric footwork. He’s a nightmare for most centre-backs because of his almost terrier-like bravery in running at defenders and beating them for pace.

The striker would fit right in in Jurgen Klopp’s because of his searing pace and ruthless ability to play on the counter. A clever player who thrives off playing on the shoulder of the last defender, once he is through goal, goalkeepers have no chance of reading what he’s going to do. The confidence, assuredness and potent edge in front of goal makes him an attractive option for any top club in Europe.

Dusan Vlahovic, Fiorentina

In more ways than some, Dusan Vlahovic’s trajectory over the past year has been the polar opposite of Fiorentina’s. While the club have flat-lined into a complete demise both on the pitch and on the managerial front, the 21-year-old’s credibility and standing amongst the some of the elite young forwards in Europe has risen considerably.

21 goals and 3 assists from 34 Serie A starts for Fiorentina, Vlahović is among the leading marksmen in Serie A for goals, but not only that, his sheer desire and passion when performing is certainly of a unique and hugely promising style.

One of the first striking elements of Dušan Vlahović’s characteristics is his striking size. At 6’3”, he stands quite literally, head and shoulders above others, especially some defenders who are tasked with taming him during a game. This has all the makings of a familiar fairytale story when it comes to young prodigy’s especially strikers, that their size immediately strikes fear into their opponents.

Like Erling Braut Haaland, Dušan Vlahović is built of a similar ilk.

For most of the campaign, Fiorentina have opted for a 3-5-2 system, with Vlahović and Ribery as the two forwards. It’s a pairing which offers dynamism, flair, creativity and a real clinical edge. Most of Vlahović’s goals this season have stemmed from the Serbian’s superb movement in the box, and finding himself in the right spaces at the right time.

Vlahović is a potent and clinical penalty box presence, a devastating finisher and his 21 goals in Serie A this season showing that at the tender age of just 21, he’s got so much to give in goal scoring situations. 6 of those 21 goals have come from the penalty spot, scoring 6 from 6 in fact, meaning that he is ever-so reliable from the penalty spot.

Good movement, clinical finishing – Vlahović already looks the complete young package. As a bonus, he works hard off the ball too, he is tenacious, and plays the game like his life depends on it. He is not the type of player to be around when you have the ball, he will hustle and bustle until he regains possession, a real terrier-like performer. He averages 2.44 successful pressures per 90 while also recording 0.62 tackles + interceptions which highlights his abilities without the ball.

All these characteristics make him the perfect Jurgen Klopp-striker. Klopp was the mastermind behind Robert Lewandowski and Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang’s learning and development in the early years, imagine what he could do with Vlahovic.

A future leading striker for many years to come, Liverpool would be incredibly smart to invest in it.