After a frustrating start plagued by injury, Liverpool's summer signing Jeremie Frimpong is beginning to show exactly why the club invested £29.5 million to bring him from Bayer Leverkusen. Described by manager Arne Slot with the onomatopoeic "bam bam" to capture his explosive pace, the Dutch international is emerging as a solution to the Reds' recent creative struggles.
The 'Little Assassin' Ready to Unlock Defences
Frimpong's unique attributes have long been recognised by those who have coached him. Former Celtic manager Neil Lennon labelled him a "little assassin" who is unfazed by pressure, highlighting his blistering initial speed and ability to sustain it over long distances. This raw pace, combined with clever adaptation on the pitch—a trait noted by Dutch legend Mark van Bommel as the quintessential "Dutch way"—makes him a prototype of the modern attacking full-back.
His statistics at Bayer Leverkusen were simply astonishing for a defender: 19 goals and 24 assists across the previous two seasons, playing a pivotal role in their Bundesliga and German Cup double. Liverpool identified him not only as a full-back but also as a potential deputy for Mohamed Salah on the right wing, a role he may fulfil in the coming weeks.
Slot's Tactical Evolution Inspired by PSG
Manager Arne Slot's desire to evolve Liverpool's full-back philosophy was a key driver behind the signing. He had studied the devastating impact of Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes at Paris Saint-Germain under Luis Enrique, a duo instrumental in PSG's Champions League victory over Liverpool last season. Slot sought to inject similar vertical threat and width into his own side.
The departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid, first reported by Daily Mail Sport on Boxing Day last year, created a vacancy that demanded a new approach. Slot acknowledged he could not directly replace Alexander-Arnold's unique style but saw in Frimpong, alongside Milos Kerkez and the energetic Conor Bradley, a way to add a different, pace-fuelled dimension. "He has that pace similar to Conor, Milos and Robbo," Slot said, emphasising its importance both in attack and defence against the Premier League's rapid wingers.
Overcoming Injury and Adding End Product
Frimpong's start at Anfield was stalled by two hamstring injuries, limiting him to just two Premier League starts since his move—a stark contrast to his ever-present record in Germany. Now fully fit, he is diligently working on the defensive side of his game to become a more rounded player while employing techniques to avoid further niggles.
His immediate impact is already tangible. In Liverpool's last two outings, he was central to crucial goals: a deft, lofted cross for Hugo Ekitike against Tottenham and a clever pull-back for Ryan Gravenberch in the win over Wolves. Both assists came at moments when Liverpool were struggling to break down deep-lying defences, precisely the problem he was acquired to solve.
Described as a bubbly character in the dressing room, Frimpong's integration is a work in progress for Slot, who has been hampered by inconsistent availability across his squad. However, the signs are promising. "Bit by bit, we see players and the team improving," Slot stated ahead of the New Year's Day clash with Leeds. For Jeremie Frimpong, the 'bam bam' effect is just beginning, offering Liverpool a thrilling new weapon in their pursuit of success.
