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Tony Evans: Liverpool’s Radical Summer Feels Like 1987 All Over Again

Liverpool’s Summer Reset Signals a New Era

This is an abridged version; the full article is available on our ‘It Was Always… Liverpool’ Substack page:

Liverpool’s summer business is shaping up to be one of the most significant in decades. With Florian Wirtz finalising his move from Bayer Leverkusen, Jeremie Frimpong already announced and more signings expected, it is clear that Arne Slot is being backed to reshape the squad quickly and decisively.

Traditionally, the club added quality from a position of strength. This time, Fenway Sports Group are acting with rare boldness. Slot, the recruitment team and the owners recognise that this is a unique opportunity. By targeting top-tier young professionals like Wirtz, Liverpool are aiming for immediate impact as well as future value.

Echoes of 1987

The current strategy draws clear parallels with 1987, when Kenny Dalglish rebuilt a struggling team with a series of brave moves. The arrival of Peter Beardsley and John Aldridge initially raised questions. It wasn’t until John Barnes joined that things clicked into place. That trio never got labelled a “Holy Trinity”, but they delivered football that was as exciting as it was effective.

Barnes in particular redefined what Liverpool could be. Direct, powerful and impossible to shrug off the ball, he injected new life into Anfield. Wirtz may not be the same type of player, but he arrives with the potential to redefine Liverpool’s attacking identity in his own way.

Liverpool’s Radical Summer Feels Like 1987 All Over Again

Robertson Nears Exit

One big change may be at left back, with Andy Robertson likely to depart. Initially doubted after his arrival from Hull, and even by Jürgen Klopp himself, Robertson proved himself a relentless, disciplined and reliable presence. His athleticism helped define Liverpool’s style during their most successful spell in a generation. At 31, the time feels right for both parties to move on.

Slot’s Tactical Shift

Slot is expected to take a more centralised creative approach. Full backs like Frimpong and Milos Kerkez will attack high, but goals and invention will now come from midfield, with Wirtz the key figure. Liverpool will pose threats from multiple areas, and rivals who think they have Slot’s system figured out could be in for a shock.