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Jurgen Klopp gives his verdict on Liverpool starlet’s performance against RB Leipzig

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By Roland Cutinho

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp pleased by Fabio Carvalho performance against RB Salzburg

According to the Liverpool Echo, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp praised Fabio Carvalho for his brave performance against Salzburg despite receiving some rough treatment from the German side.

The Reds lost to RB Salzburg in a difficult preseason match as they continued to prepare themselves for the 2022–23 season. Jurgen Klopp’s men lined up in their standard 4-3-3 formation with academy prospect Stefan Bajetic as the lone defensive midfielder and Darwin Nunez as the striker for the second game in a row.

A youthful-looking Liverpool starting lineup also included Fabio Carvalho and Harvey Elliott in the wide positions. However, the youngsters had a difficult night since they couldn’t manage to find the back of the net in the entire game.

Jurgen Klopp pleased by Fabio Carvalho performance against RB Salzburg. (Image: DeFodi Images via Getty Images)
Fabio Carvalho in action against RB Salzburg (Image: DeFodi Images via Getty Images)

There were few bright spots as Darwin Nunez hit the crossbar in the opening period. However, Benjamin Šeško made the most of his chances by hitting a powerful shot past Adrian to seal the match.

In the second half, Klopp made some key changes, bringing in several of his senior first-team players, but despite their increased chances of scoring, they were kept away from the tight German defense.

The outcome was not what Liverpool supporters would have wanted but, the performance of Carvalho, though, would be a bright spot they can take away from the Salzburg game. The young man displayed class at every turn, directing the performance with ease and it looked like he has played at that position for years.

Jurgen Klopp pleased by Fabio Carvalho performance against RB Salzburg (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Fabio Carvalho fitting in perfectly at Anfield (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

Jurgen Klopp is excited to have such a talented star at his disposal after witnessing him progressing so well with his team. Speaking at a press conference, the manager said:

“He’s a technical player, creative and we will have a lot of fun with him. He showed that in moments tonight but he can do much better. I am really happy with him, he has shown up and it’s a good sign. Top addition for us.”

It makes sense why Klopp thinks so highly of him. The German boss couldn’t have been more open in his admiration of the 19-year-old while speaking earlier this month.

The 19-year-old possesses the qualities necessary to flourish on the left of a three-man midfield if Liverpool opts to play a 4-3-3. As the advanced dribbler with the freedom to play upfront, he would be able to pick up similar pockets on the left as he did with Fulham last season.

Jurgen Klopp pleased by Fabio Carvalho's performance against RB Salzburg  (Photo by Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images)
Jurgen Klopp praises Fabio Carvalho (Photo by Matthew Ashton – AMA/Getty Images)

Carvalho would presumably assume the 10 positions should Liverpool try out a 4-2-3-1 formation, giving him the ability to once again wander and pick up pockets on the left, where he frequently tends to create a lot of chances.

Furthermore, the former Fulham star would be able to dictate the entire left wing as he would be more than capable of performing the job there should Klopp attempt to rotate him. It wouldn’t be a surprise if he would be able to contribute from the bench if required.

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This season, as he develops alongside other prominent talents like Harvey Elliott, Liverpool fans would be incredibly excited about his chances of playing regularly in the future.