Liverpool’s latest signing could change their right side dynamic | OneFootball

Frimpong’s Early Struggles and First Steps

Jeremie Frimpong’s journey back to English football has come full circle. From the streets of Moston to the elite levels of the Bundesliga, the Dutch international’s path to Anfield has been shaped by setbacks, sacrifices and standout performances.

Liverpool’s interest in Frimpong isn’t new, according to Gregg Evans in The Athletic, the club had identified his talent as early as his youth football days with Clayton in Manchester. Back then, distance scuppered their plans, and Manchester City secured his signature. Now, 15 years later, Liverpool have finally landed their man. The Reds triggered a €35 million (£29.6m) release clause to bring the dynamic right-back to Merseyside from Bayer Leverkusen, tying him down to a five-year contract.

Rise Through City, Celtic and Leverkusen

Frimpong’s development was never straightforward. Raised in a single-parent household alongside six siblings, his commitment was unquestionable. His mother, Bernice, worked two cleaning jobs and endured long commutes to ensure Jeremie could train with Manchester City. Despite early doubts about his size and composure, he impressed consistently, drawing praise for his blistering pace and adaptability.

“He drifted past players like they weren’t even there,” coach Paul Sneddon recalled. “I think he scored 50 goals in his second season with us but he would have scored 100 if he didn’t fall over.”

At Celtic, he became a breakout star, making an immediate impression on manager Neil Lennon. Signed for just £350,000, Frimpong helped the club to a domestic treble and showed immense growth. Despite some concerns over his maturity, he earned the respect of senior players through performance and application.

Bundesliga Glory and European Spotlight

Leverkusen paid £11.5 million to take him from Glasgow in January 2021. It was a move that aligned with their vision — nurturing young talent into European-level stars. Under Xabi Alonso’s guidance, Frimpong flourished. His tally of 14 goals and 12 assists across all competitions last season helped the club to a historic Bundesliga title, breaking Bayern Munich’s 11-year dominance.

Off the pitch, he became a key figure in the dressing room and among fans. On it, he evolved into one of Europe’s most devastating attacking full-backs. Frimpong’s positional intelligence, recovery speed and technical ability made him a constant threat down the right flank.

His strong Christian faith and connections within his teams have helped him adjust quickly to new environments. Whether it was Celtic or Leverkusen, he made himself indispensable.

What Liverpool Are Getting

Frimpong arrives at Anfield as a mature 24-year-old with top-level pedigree. He’s part of the Netherlands’ national setup and has shown resilience through every stage of his career. His energy, enthusiasm, and attacking prowess are expected to complement Liverpool’s evolving style under Arne Slot.

“Jeremie has both [a strong character and work ethic] and now he has a really big advantage in that he will play for a coach at his club who really suits his style,” said Maarten Stekelenburg, who worked with Frimpong at youth international level.

His ability to dovetail with Mohamed Salah — the Egyptian frequently drifts inside — will open up space for Frimpong to exploit down the flank. Off the pitch, his charisma, love for music and anime, and interest in social causes make him a commercially appealing addition.

Replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold long-term is a daunting task, but those close to Frimpong believe he’s ready for the challenge. His next chapter begins at a club whose interest in him never truly faded.