Jeremie Frimpong has admitted he has “big shoes” to fill at Liverpool as he replaces Trent Alexander-Arnold, but has no doubt he is up to the task.
The Dutch international signed for the Reds on the same day their long-term right-back’s move to Real Madrid was announced. While Frimpong is not seen as a like-for-like replacement for Alexander-Arnold, the decision to purchase the defender was certainly born out of the need for additional options on the right flank.
Frimpong’s capacity to play higher up was a factor in Liverpool’s interest in the 24-year-old this summer, but he has primarily operated at right-back or right wing-back during his career.
A title winner at Bayer Leverkusen and viewed as one of the most promising young right-backs on the planet, Liverpool was in no doubt that Frimpong has the talent required to replace Alexander-Arnold. As for the player himself, he also has no concerns about stepping up to the challenge.
“It's big shoes,” but it's Liverpool, it's a big team who win trophies for a reason,” Frimpong told Sky Sports when asked about replacing Alexander-Arnold.
“If you play for Liverpool, you have to fill in the shoes and perform. I've always believed in myself. I'm a winner. That's what I'll bring.”
Trent Alexander-Arnold
Liverpool headed into the summer needing a new right-back (Image: Getty Images)
Frimpong will compete for a starting berth with Conor Bradley, who signed a new contract this summer.
Talented as the pair are, neither can match Alexander-Arnold’s passing range, creativity, and ability to provide assists.
They are, however, both dynamic, entertaining full-backs who enjoy advancing down the line. For Frimpong in particular, his rapid attacks will be an exciting new element of Arne Slot’s team.
Given the fast pace of the English top flight, Liverpool’s new right-back could thrive following his departure to Anfield.
Jeremie Frimpong dribbling on the ball.
Frimpong's dribbling with bring a new dynamic to the Liverpool team (Image: Getty Images)
“The Premier League is the best league in the world,” he said when asked about his decision to leave Leverkusen. “I grew up in Manchester so I always wanted to come back. It was always the plan.
“I know what being a champion is like at Bayer Leverkusen so joining a champion team is a privilege, especially for Liverpool. To go from watching them to playing for them is crazy.
“The manager has told me how I can help the team and he really likes me as a player. It's given me extra motivation and belief.”
Florian Wirtz has completed his move to Liverpool
Florian Wirtz completed his move to Liverpool on Friday (Image: Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Frimpong also backed his close friend Florian Wirtz to shine in the Premier League and shrug off the pressure that will inevitably come with his record-breaking transfer fee.
“That is my boy. Just expect a winner,” said Frimpong. “He is a very, very, very, special player. And for me, he's a very hard-working guy. The league will love him. And I ain't got to talk too much. Just watch.
“Flo, he doesn’t crumble under pressure; he's a guy that likes pressure,” he continued. “I feel like when you're on the pitch you forget about everything, you just enjoy football, you just play.
“Flo is one of the guys that makes you enjoy football, just seeing how he plays. He's going to be perfect and he's playing with Liverpool players, so he's going to be perfect. He’s going to fine.”