Liverpool are looking to mount a proper title challenge next year, now that Klopp has a preseason under his belt and a host of players. Players like Sadio Mane, Wijnaldum, Ragnar Klavan have arrived at Anfield this summer and have seriously raised the quality of the Liverpool squad. Mane was heavily touted to move to Manchester United but choose to move to Liverpool. Liverpool.
Mane scored 11 and assisted 6 in 37 appearances for the Saints last season, including a hattrick against Liverpool in the league. The presence of charismatic Jurgen Klopp would have definitely influenced his decision-making process. He notices the opportunities that await for him at Liverpool now that Klopp is fully integrated into the club.
There will be enormous pressure on the Senegalese International given the hefty transfer fee that Liverpool had to pay to get him from Southampton. His speed and versatility will be key to how Liverpool will perform next season. He can be a threat down the wings with his pace, while his creativity is perfect for playing through the centre.
He has come into a side which is already pretty stocked with creative midfielders. Although his transfer fee should guarantee him a starting spot, he will have to work hard in the long run to maintain a place in the team. Mane will have to battle it out with the likes Adam Lallana, Firmino, Coutinho and maybe James Milner.
Though mane started his career in central midfield, he spent two years playing on the right wing and as a second striker at Southampton. With options aplenty in the central area, Klopp will be most interested in playing Mane on the right wing, where he can utilize his pace and goal threat. Mane got 9 of his 15 goals last season playing on the right wing.
At United, Mane wouldn’t have been able to get the game time or focus that he will receive under Klopp. The fact that Liverpool have such a lethal weapon in their ranks, will definitely help the team progress further next season. Mane would easily fir on the right with Frimino on the left or he could even switch flanks and start alongside Coutinho centrally and Lallana on the right.
Regarding United’s interest in his signature, Mane said, “Yes, it was true. There was interest from a lot of clubs, not just Manchester United, but as soon as I knew Liverpool were interested I just felt it was the right club with the right coach. It was right for me to come here.” He spoke how big the club is and how big its history is. Mane will fit perfectly into Klopp’s plans, he is very quick and his work ethics will suit the high pressing style used by Liverpool.
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