Bundesliga Expert View: Frimpong’s Attacking Strengths Suit Liverpool’s New Direction | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Pursuit of Frimpong: Bundesliga Insight from Ninad Barbadikar

As Liverpool fans look forward to a new era under Arne Slot, attention has turned firmly to the Bundesliga. With the season concluded, speculation intensifies regarding who might make the switch to Anfield. On a special episode of Media Matters, Dave Davis welcomed Bundesliga expert Ninad Barbadikar to dissect the German market and, more specifically, the much-discussed link between Liverpool and Jeremie Frimpong.

Frimpong: Lightning on the Right Flank

Few names have generated as much excitement this summer as Jeremie Frimpong, and Ninad Barbadikar did little to cool the flames. “We’ve seen possibly the best version of what Frimpong can be in the past couple of seasons,” he said, crediting Xabi Alonso’s system for showcasing the wing-back’s talents. Described as someone who “can use his pace to outpace anybody on their finest day,” Frimpong’s strength lies in his explosive forward runs.

Barbadikar highlighted his attacking prowess, noting, “He isn’t the greatest finisher, but it’s the amount of volume he gets in those movements into the box.” Liverpool’s style under Slot may well benefit from such dynamism, and the idea of Frimpong complementing Mo Salah is tantalising. “If you have someone like Frimpong who can stretch that right flank all day with his bombarding runs, it’s going to be a big plus,” he added.

Personality Fit for Liverpool

Beyond the football, character matters. “It would be absolutely fair to say [he’s] a bit of a character,” said Barbadikar, referencing Frimpong’s memorable post-match interviews. He added, “He is a great character… already a big, big personality,” before suggesting the Dutchman would fit seamlessly into Liverpool’s dressing room. With a growing Dutch contingent including Van Dijk and Gakpo, there is already a foundation for his integration.

Frimpong’s off-pitch presence could be just as influential. “He can improve the dressing room vibe,” noted Barbadikar. Personality, pace and presence—Frimpong appears to tick all the boxes.

Going Against the Grain

Where some elite clubs seek control and versatility in fullbacks, Liverpool may be heading in the opposite direction. “Liverpool are going against the grain,” said Barbadikar, pointing to the club’s interest in more offensive defenders. “You’ve seen Arsenal invest in Timber, City in Gvardiol… Liverpool want more offensive players in their team.”

Photo: IMAGO

This strategic divergence could pay off. “Even though he is not a traditional fullback, he ticks so many boxes in terms of player quality… it makes absolute sense to go for this deal,” Barbadikar explained.

Concerns remain, chiefly around the physicality of the Premier League. But Barbadikar believes pace may compensate, suggesting, “There is definitely some concern about his immediate physical adjustment… but he’s just going to use his pace to make up for any deficiencies.”

Fit for the Future

As Salah approaches the latter stages of his peak, Liverpool must plan ahead. Frimpong could be part of that evolution. Barbadikar concluded, “You want players who can affect goal scoring… and Frimpong does that to a very high degree.”

This is not a speculative punt but a calculated investment. From tactical fit to temperament, the alignment seems clear. Barbadikar’s endorsement is unequivocal: “The trade-offs are worth it when it comes to someone like Frimpong.”

While fans await official movement, the buzz continues. If Liverpool secure Frimpong, it will mark not just a tactical statement but a cultural one. A rapid, attacking force down the right, a lively presence in the dressing room, and perhaps, the beginning of a new blueprint under Arne Slot.