Liverpool Face Balancing Act with Frimpong Replacing Alexander-Arnold | OneFootball

Jeremie Frimpong and Liverpool’s Right-Sided Evolution

As Trent Alexander-Arnold’s move to Real Madrid shifted from possibility to inevitability, Liverpool faced a question with no simple answer. The England international was not only one of the finest wingbacks in the modern game but also a unique figure in their system. Replacing him like-for-like was unlikely.

Instead, the club sought a player who could fill his position while offering a fresh dimension. In Jeremie Frimpong, signed from Bayer Leverkusen, they have found someone who matches some of Alexander-Arnold’s traits while differing in key areas.

Photo: IMAGO

Different Profiles, Same Ambition

Both players excel at right wingback in attack-minded teams and share a reputation for prioritising offensive output over defensive solidity. Yet, as CBS Sports noted, “There is one key difference between Alexander-Arnold and Frimpong, at least in this stage of their careers – the former is more of a creative player, while the latter is essentially an out-and-out winger.”

Frimpong’s numbers underline that point. At Leverkusen under Xabi Alonso, his defensive duties were minimal, allowing him to thrive on direct running and goal threat. He averaged 4.11 progressive carries per game, scored 30 goals and provided 44 assists in 190 appearances, and ranked in the 98th percentile for non-penalty expected goals. His output already surpasses Alexander-Arnold’s in goals and assists.

Creative Edge Versus Goal Threat

Alexander-Arnold remains one of the most creative passers in world football. He sits in the 97th percentile for passes attempted (71.8 per game) and in the 99th percentile for progressive passes (8.52 per game). Frimpong, by contrast, is in the fourth percentile for both metrics. The distinction is clear; one dictates play, the other disrupts defences with movement and finishing.

Both approaches are highly effective when used in the right tactical context. Last season, Frimpong averaged 0.35 non-penalty expected goals and assists, ranking in the 97th percentile, while Alexander-Arnold posted 0.31 in the 94th percentile.

Photo: IMAGO

Defensive Questions and Tactical Balance

Alexander-Arnold’s defensive work has often been scrutinised, yet his numbers – 2.63 tackles per match (85th percentile) and 1.19 interceptions (77th percentile) – show a level of engagement. Frimpong’s defensive contribution is far lower, a factor Ronald Koeman highlighted in 2023 when he said, “He plays almost as a right winger. My right-back should be able to defend well in the first place and I have my doubts about that.”

Last season, 48% of Alexander-Arnold’s touches came in the defensive half, compared to just 22% for Frimpong. The Dutchman was in the fifth percentile for tackles (1.13 per game) and the third percentile for interceptions (0.38).

For Arne Slot, the challenge is integrating Frimpong’s attacking potency while ensuring the right flank does not become a defensive weakness. Liverpool’s Community Shield loss to Crystal Palace hinted at an imbalance, with the attacking emphasis sometimes leaving the back line exposed.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Frimpong’s arrival signals a tactical shift rather than a like-for-like replacement for Alexander-Arnold. His pace, dribbling and goal threat could add a new layer to Arne Slot’s right side, but it will require careful integration.

Supporters will be excited by his attacking statistics, which eclipse those of most fullbacks in Europe. However, the defensive gaps cannot be ignored. In the Premier League, where transitions can be brutal, Liverpool will need to ensure they have cover in midfield and at centre-back when Frimpong pushes forward.

Slot’s challenge will be to keep the right flank an asset without allowing it to become a target. This may mean adjusting the role of Wataru Endo or asking Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate to shift across more often. If the balance is struck, Frimpong could be one of the signings of the season. If not, opponents will exploit the space he leaves behind.