Should Liverpool Cash In on Robertson?

Liverpool’s 2024/25 season has surpassed expectations, with Arne Slot leading the team to compete for multiple titles.

Despite a surprising FA Cup defeat to Plymouth Argyle, Liverpool reached the Carabao Cup final and holds a narrow lead against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.

Furthermore, Liverpool is comfortably ahead in the Premier League, on track to become champions.

While Harvey Elliott secured a win in Paris, Alisson Becker’s crucial saves were vital for Liverpool’s victory.

Arne Slot recognizes Alisson as ‘the best goalkeeper in the world’ and appreciates having such a world-class player, who often compensates for the team’s weaknesses.

However, Alisson presents a dilemma for FSG (Fenway Sports Group), Liverpool’s owners.

Liverpool’s Goalkeeping Conundrum

Alisson was outstanding against PSG, while Liverpool’s outfield players struggled both with possession and defense for most of the game.

He is arguably the best goalkeeper, but at 32 and with recent injury issues, Alisson may not be consistently available throughout a long season.

Liverpool has coped well with Alisson’s absences because Caoimhin Kelleher is considered ‘the best No. 2 in the world’ by Jurgen Klopp. However, Kelleher might seek a starting role elsewhere.

Kelleher has expressed his desire to leave this summer, as his contract nears its end, which is understandable.

Liverpool signed Federico Chiesa last year, and have also agreed to a £29m deal for Valencia’s Giorgi Mamardashvili, who will join the team for the 2025/26 season.

Liverpool should sell Kelleher and allow Alisson and Mamardashvili to compete for the starting position.

Kelleher isn’t the only player potentially leaving with an expiring contract. Another long-serving player is also in a similar situation and struggling, suggesting it might be time for a change.

FSG Could Boldly Sell Liverpool Stalwart

Slot and the transfer team have significant decisions to make this summer. While contract negotiations with key players are ongoing, other players might also need replacing.

With Liverpool reportedly looking for a new left-back, Andy Robertson’s future is uncertain due to his recent performances.

Robertson, aged 30, may be experiencing wear and tear from Klopp’s demanding system. Once known for his energy, he might be losing his edge.

Robertson’s positioning and reduced pace have caused problems this season. He averages very few successful dribbles per game, indicating a decline in his attacking contribution.

This has impacted his creativity. Robertson is on track for his first Premier League season with Liverpool without a goal or assist, though there is still time to change this.

Broadcaster Nubaid Haroon suggested earlier in the season that Liverpool should consider using Joe Gomez at left-back instead of Robertson, noting Robertson’s struggles.

Robertson has struggled to regain his best form, and it seems challenging for him to reach his previous level at Anfield again.

If Liverpool decides to sell Robertson, they would need a replacement. Kostas Tsimikas, 28, is a capable backup but is similar in style to Robertson.

Therefore, FSG is reportedly interested in signing Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, 21, a promising young player in the Premier League.

Considering Robertson’s high wages (£160k per week), even more than Alisson, and his current form, it’s questionable whether his place in the team is justified, especially with the potential arrival of Kerkez.

Liverpool faces tough decisions, but selling Robertson could free up wages to strengthen other areas and secure contracts for more critical players.