Liverpool’s Failed Pursuit of Jude Bellingham Leads to Midfield Upgrades
Liverpool’s pursuit of young talent Jude Bellingham may have been unsuccessful, but the Reds have managed to strengthen their midfield with the signings of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai. Despite missing out on a top-four finish last season, Liverpool recognized the need for heavy investment in their midfield and have made significant improvements.
The lack of Champions League football may have affected Liverpool’s plans to strengthen their midfield, but both Mac Allister and Szoboszlai were eager to join the club. The neglect of the midfield was a core reason behind Liverpool’s failed title bid and fifth-placed finish last season. While they had invested heavily in the attack and defense, the midfield had been overlooked for too long.
Since the start of 2021, Fabio Carvalho and Arthur were the only new midfield arrivals. Carvalho has moved to RB Leipzig on loan, while Arthur only played 13 minutes for Jurgen Klopp’s side last season. However, with the additions of Mac Allister and Szoboszlai, and potentially one more midfielder to come, Liverpool fans can be confident in their team’s chances of competing for the Premier League title in the upcoming season.
One of the appealing aspects of Mac Allister’s addition is his versatility in midfield. The Argentine midfielder can play in various roles and has proven himself capable in each one. With 10 goals and two assists last season, Mac Allister also contributed 2.2 tackles, 1.5 key passes, and 1.3 successful dribbles per game. His flexibility allows Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp to utilize him in different positions during matches, providing cover for Fabinho or playing as one of the more advanced midfielders in Klopp’s preferred 4-3-3 formation.
Mac Allister’s durability is another asset for Liverpool. Despite featuring in 35 of Brighton’s 38 league matches, all five FA Cup outings, and six of Argentina’s seven games on their route to World Cup glory, he did not suffer any injuries. His high-octane approach in midfield will not only provide additional cover for the defense but also create chances for the attackers.
On the other hand, Szoboszlai brings creativity to Liverpool’s midfield. His 71 key passes last season ranked fourth in the Bundesliga, resulting in eight assists. Like Mac Allister, Szoboszlai is a versatile player who can fill in different roles. He is suited to the number 10 position and could play as the more advanced midfielder in Klopp’s 4-3-3 system. With Trent Alexander-Arnold given the freedom to push into midfield, Szoboszlai can support the attack without leaving defensive vulnerabilities.
Szoboszlai’s ability to provide crosses is another valuable asset. Last season, he had the best cross success rate (40.7%) among players who attempted 50 or more crosses in the Bundesliga. Liverpool’s forwards will benefit from his accurate deliveries into the box. The signings of Mac Allister and Szoboszlai represent a step in the right direction for Liverpool’s rebuild, as they have acquired two top-quality central midfielders for the price they would have paid for one.
Liverpool’s midfield upgrades may not end with Mac Allister and Szoboszlai. The club has been linked with midfielders Khephren Thuram, Manu Kone, and Romeo Lavia this summer. Lavia, who has Premier League experience and is younger than Thuram and Kone, seems to be the most likely addition following Southampton’s relegation.
Regardless of further signings, Mac Allister and Szoboszlai are excellent captures for Liverpool and will undoubtedly enhance their chances of securing a second Premier League title. The Reds have recognized the importance of strengthening their midfield and have made significant strides in addressing this area of the team. With a revamped midfield, Liverpool can look forward to a promising campaign ahead.