Liverpool midfielder Naby Keita could snub fresh contract offer unless he is handed a major first team role
According to BILD’s Christian Falk (h/t Liverpool Echo), Naby Keita could decline a new contract unless he is given a more prominent role at Liverpool.
The midfielder joined Liverpool in 2018 for £48million from RB Leipzig. While he has had his moments, injuries have prevented him from staking a claim for a regular spot in the first XI.
The Anfield faithful were given another scare when Keita had to be subbed off during their 3-0 victory against Norwich in the Carabao Cup earlier this week. He was replaced by teenager Tyler Morton who went on to put in a solid display himself.
The 26-year-old scored with an excellent individual effort in Liverpool’s 3-0 win over Crystal Palace in the Premier League last Saturday. While his impact when on form is undeniable, Keita has been largely unavailable for a large chunk of games during his time at Anfield.
To put things into perspective, Keita has made 82 appearances for the Merseysiders in all competitions. During the same time, he has missed 54 games due to various injuries.
Thankfully Jurgen Klopp has revealed that his injury against Norwich in the Carabao Cup clash wasn’t too serious. The Liverpool boss would want to rotate his players with a hectic schedule on the cards. Having the Guinean available will give him more options.
The 26-year-old has less than two years remaining on his contract at Liverpool. While his talent cannot be questioned, his availability to make an impact on the pitch can be.
As things stand, he has no basis to demand a prominent role at the club. While he has won trophies with the Reds, it is difficult to pinpoint him maintaining a tell-tale contribution. Unless he can back it up with his performances on the field, there is little leverage he will have in negotiations.
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Liverpool are not a club that will give in to player demands. Both Emre Can and Georginio Wijnaldum have found that in recent seasons. Whether Keita is keen to join their list remains to be seen.
