Liverpool plans advanced role for Jeremie Frimpong

Liverpool viewed Jeremie Frimpong as much more than a conventional right-back and planned to use him in a more dynamic and versatile role. According to journalist David Lynch, the club did not plan to use him as a starting right-back, or even as a pure backup in that position, but instead as a flexible wide option who could operate all along the right flank.

In this vision, Frimpong was regarded as a high-energy "utility" player who would spend much of his time contributing to Liverpool’s attack from advanced areas on the wing. This tactical choice had knock-on effects for the squad, prompting Liverpool to either recruit a more conventional right-back or move Joe Gomez into that role and then sign another centre-back to compensate.

Frimpong joined Liverpool in May 2025 from Bayer Leverkusen for £29.5 million on a five-year deal, having been initially touted as a long-term successor to Trent Alexander-Arnold. He made his competitive debut on 10 August 2025 in the FA Community Shield against Crystal Palace, coming off the bench to restore Liverpool’s 2-1 lead in a match that finished 2-2 before Liverpool lost 3-2 on penalties.

Conor Bradley’s serious injury and uncertain recovery timeline added further complexity as the club finalized its defensive plans.