Despite approving the loans of Nat Phillips and Rhys Williams, Liverpool did not enter the center-back market this summer. If a similar injury situation occurred again, Jürgen Klopp would now need to look elsewhere. The backup pairing in 2020–21.
Ibrahima Konaté has now joined Liverpool, at least, though his history of injuries is not exactly encouraging. Joe Gomez and Jol Matip are presently holding down the fort as Virgil van Dijk serves a suspension, and he has already been absent this season.
That pair’s injury records are also not exactly stellar. Only Van Dijk, a 32-year-old on the roster, among the group of four players available to Klopp, can be categorized as dependable in terms of availability.
It’s noteworthy that Jarell Quansah has already played this year, joining the action in a crucial away game against Newcastle. Although Liverpool will undoubtedly be hoping for good fortune on the injury front, he might eventually be chosen to fill the Phillips or Williams role.
However, Klopp does have a backup plan if necessary. Liverpool signed a center-back in late 2020, sneaking him in before Brexit legislation made it illegal for people under 18 to enter the UK.
Naturally, Stefan Bajcetic isn’t seen as a defender at Anfield. Prior to his own injury, he was making tremendous progress after breaking through as a number six the previous season.
Without injuries, Bajcetic will obviously not be vying for a starting position at center back, and it does appear likely that his long-term career lies further forward. However, given his decision to forgo hiring in the summer, Klopp can find solace in the fact that there is still a choice. One thing is for certain, though: having the Spaniard back is a massive plus in any role.
