Assessing Liverpool’s £12m Gamble on Julio Soler as Andy Robertson’s Potential Successor
Unveiling the New Left-Back Prospect
During Richard Hughes’ first press conference as Liverpool’s new sporting director, he hinted that the summer transfer window might be slow due to the Olympics. This context becomes relevant with the club’s reported interest in Julio Soler, a standout in Javier Mascherano’s Argentina squad at the Olympics. Sam McGuire from Anfield Watch highlights that “the timeline certainly tallies up,” with multiple Argentine journalists reporting a potential £11.7 million transfer fee for the young left-back.
Liverpool’s Strategy and Soler’s Profile
Liverpool are not lacking in young talent at the left-back position, yet their interest in Soler suggests they see unique potential. McGuire notes, “Soler hasn’t played much football at senior level, his stock has never been higher after a solid showing at the Olympics and the Reds have a number of young left-backs already at the club.” The club may view him as an investment who can be groomed to take over from Robertson in due course.
Andy Robertson’s fitness concerns amplify the need for a long-term replacement. The Scotsman, a pivotal figure under Jurgen Klopp, has struggled with injuries recently, which necessitates managed game time. Soler, with his impressive dribbling ability and a 77% success rate in one-on-ones, shows traits that could benefit Liverpool’s dynamic playstyle under new manager Arne Slot.
Technical Analysis: What Does Soler Bring?
Soler’s technical stats are promising yet suggest room for growth. For Lanus last season, he attempted only 33 passes per match but had a commendable success rate of 86%. His expected assists per 90 minutes were a mere 0.03, indicating his potential underutilization in creative roles. McGuire points out that “45% of his crosses find a teammate and he plays seven passes per 90 into the penalty area.” These statistics suggest that with the right coaching, Soler could enhance his playmaking abilities.
Comparing Past and Present: The Slot Effect
The adaptation to Slot’s tactical system will be crucial for Soler. Slot previously managed Quilindschy Hartman at Feyenoord, who was heavily involved in play, averaging 75 attempted passes per 90 with a slightly lower success rate than Soler’s but with better creative output. Slot’s system, which emphasizes progressive play and possession under pressure, could refine Soler’s raw skills into a more polished and effective role, akin to what Hartman accomplished under him.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
From the perspective of a Liverpool supporter, the interest in Julio Soler is a thrilling development. It’s about more than just finding a backup or direct replacement for Andy Robertson; it’s about planning for the future with a young talent who could potentially offer a different dimension to Liverpool’s gameplay.
While Soler is still a raw talent with much to prove, his participation in high-profile tournaments like the Olympics has showcased his resilience and ability to handle pressure. His technical skills, particularly in dribbling and creating spaces, align with Liverpool’s attacking ethos. Moreover, under Slot’s guidance, there’s a genuine opportunity for Soler to develop into a premier left-back capable of contributing both defensively and offensively.
However, the transition from Argentina’s Primera División to the Premier League is not without its challenges. The pace and physicality of English football will test Soler’s adaptability and growth. But for a fee of around £12 million, this could be a calculated risk worth taking, considering Liverpool’s successful history with nurturing young talents.
For now, Liverpool fans can be cautiously optimistic. If Soler can tap into his potential and adapt to the Premier League’s demands, he might just be the ideal successor to Robertson, bringing a fresh flair to Liverpool’s left flank.
