Yesterday, Liverpool completed their third most expensive signing in the club’s history by announcing Sadio Mane from Southampton (yes, those good folks from the south coast) for a sum estimated to be £30 million. Though it is on the higher side, but considering he had two years left on his contract and was the best player in the Saints’ squad, if he does well at Anfield then no one would remember the price that he was signed for. Jurgen Klopp has been an admirer for four years now and the Senegalese admitted that it was difficult to turn the reds down.
Mane’s transfer saga went on for weeks as both the club’s were deadlocked on the signing fee. At last, the clubs agreed and Sadio Mane, who will wear no. 19, is finally a Red. The drawbacks which were evident last season are being made up with the arrival of Loris Karius and now finally a winger who can provide much needed pace in Liverpool’s attack. The supporters gave a positive response on his arrival and cannot wait for him to make his debut for the club’s. So, let’s take a look at the three reasons why Liverpool fans should be excited by the acquisition of Sadio Mane:
1. Mane brings goals:
Along with a stunning record of fastest hattrick in the Premier League, the Senegalese has also scored 10+ goals in his two seasons in England and his goals + assists ratio is up there at the top competing with Eden Hazard and Alexis Sanchez. He will be replacing Adam Lallana in the lineup as the Englishman is a delightful but lacks that finishing product that Mane brings to the table. With Coutinho, Firmino, Sturridge and Mane, the reds can have a fearsome attack in place for the next season.
2. Liverpool have the X-factor:
Against tight defenses and teams that sit back, the reds struggled last year as they lacked pace at times. But now with the ariival of Sadio Mane, Liverpool now can play direct football and can be a threat on the counters when under pressure. Coutinho’s vision and Mane’s vision along with Sturridge’s finish can ensure a good future for the Club. Also his versatility to play on the wings and also as a second striker will help the team and the reds can also play with a free roaming role for the trio of Coutinho, Firmino and Mane.
3. Perfect Jurgen Klopp player:
Along with his pace, Mane never sheds from the responsibility of tracking back. With him, the reds can defend from the front and can put the opposition under pressure right from the beginning. Mane guarantees goals, commitment and can add a different dimension to the reds’ attack. He is also just 24 years of age which means his peak years can come at Anfield which can help in changing the fortunes at the club.
