One Liverpool Transfer Move Set to Validate Jürgen Klopp’s Decision

Liverpool’s summer transfer moves raised eyebrows, but Jürgen Klopp might be on the verge of justifying the wisdom behind two astute signings.

Liverpool didn’t just suffer a defeat against Tottenham on Saturday afternoon; they may also have lost a vital player in Curtis Jones, who is now facing an automatic three-game suspension due to a straight red card.

Liverpool has declared its intention to appeal the red card, a strategy that proved effective earlier in the season with Alexis Mac Allister’s dismissal. However, if the appeal is unsuccessful, it would be a significant setback for both Liverpool and Jones.

Jones, who captained the Reds against Leicester City midweek in the League Cup, was riding high on confidence. Given his form towards the end of the previous season and the beginning of the new one, he has become a key player and a regular starter in Klopp’s reshaped midfield.

Nevertheless, his absence will present an opportunity for some of his positional competitors. This includes Ryan Gravenberch, a $42 million (£35 million/€40 million) acquisition, and Wataru Endō, purchased for $21 million (£16 million/€19 million). Both players are still adjusting to English football and could benefit from more playing time in the league.

While Klopp would have preferred to give his new acquisitions minutes under different circumstances, Endō and Gravenberch now have a chance to make their mark on the starting XI and potentially disrupt the established order at Anfield.

Depending on Klopp’s tactical approach, Gravenberch could be the natural choice to replace Jones. He is comfortable on the left side and shares a similar offensive-minded style with Jones, coupled with defensive acumen.

On the other hand, introducing Endō into the holding midfield role could free up another recent signing, Alexis Mac Allister, allowing him to play in a more advanced and preferred position as a number eight in Liverpool’s midfield, rather than the holding midfield role he has been assigned so far this season.

Both options hold intrigue for Klopp. Gravenberch has already made a positive impression on the Liverpool first team, contributing assists in both of his starts against LASK and Leicester City. His relentless work rate and ability to influence the game in the final third provide Liverpool with a valuable option off the bench.

While Endō took some time to settle, his recent performance against Leicester demonstrated his quality. He showcased excellent ball retention, set up a clever pass that broke Leicester’s midfield lines for an assist, and played a pivotal role in disrupting the opponent’s attacking transitions.

In the past, Jones’ suspension might have caused headaches for Liverpool, but this time, Klopp can turn to capable replacements. This is precisely why Gravenberch and Endō were brought in during the summer transfer window, and now they have an opportunity to fulfill their intended roles.