Jorrel Hato & The Long-Term Defensive Plan

Once able to field one of the most dominant and effective backlines in world football, opposition teams’ low-block strategies have prompted Arne Slot and his title-chasing Reds to explore new attacking methods which have disrupted the solidity of old. During the successful seasons under former manager Jürgen Klopp, a central defensive partnership of Virgil van Dijk and Joël Matip eventually saw an upgrade with the signing of current starter Ibrahima Konaté. The fullback positions required little alteration, as both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson reached elite levels, with Alexander-Arnold being elevated to vice-captain last season.

However, in recent seasons, we have witnessed a steady decline in the performance of the Scotland international captain. Although he has had good games and moments, the undeniable reality is that his performances have been marred by mistakes, and the effects of age are catching up with the legendary fullback, who will turn 31 in a few weeks. The intense style of play under Klopp took its toll, and with the current Anfield head coach, Arne Slot, rotating the Scottish defender with Kostas Tsimikas, it is clear that the squad lacks a strong starting option for the left-back position. Once seen as a key player with a career total of 527 club appearances, Andy Robertson may need to transition into a veteran backup behind a new and younger left-back.

Is There a Need to Recruit This Month?

The low-block strategy frequently utilized by opposing teams has led Premier League clubs to adjust their approaches. Rather than employing a back three with two attacking wing-backs, some managers, including Pep Guardiola and Jürgen Klopp, have maintained a back four, allowing a defensive player to move into midfield when in possession and morph into a trio rearguard.

This tactic, used sporadically since the 1970s initially rejuvenated Liverpool’s 2022/23 season but became problematic in the 2023/24 campaign. The freedom given to England superstar Trent Alexander-Arnold resulted in an imbalanced defensive line, creating counter-attacking opportunities for opponents. This season, however, Slot has taken a more measured approach, making Liverpool’s defence almost impenetrable in the months leading up to Christmas. Consequently, teams have targeted the left side more, as deep crosses and incisive through balls have exploited the area managed by the 80-cap Scotland international, Robertson, bringing the hardened backline under scrutiny once again.

To strengthen the defence, a more robust and physically imposing left-back may be needed to allow for an on-ball back three formation when required. As goals continue to be conceded at an increased rate since winter descended, it would be prudent to recruit a young player who can contribute in specific situations, providing solidity and speed in transition. Previous targets like Nathan Aké, Joško Gvardiol, and Riccardo Calafiori have demonstrated superb performances for their respective employers that combine excellent ball skills with strong defensive abilities. While Alexander Arnold has become a more formidable presence in defence, balancing that with a strong counterpart on the opposite flank is still crucial to allow freedom to the Three Lions star. Therefore, last summer’s targets may warrant reevaluation, with one name rising to prominence in recruitment discussions.

Is Jorrel Hato the Man to Replace Robertson?

During the weekend match in which Liverpool triumphed over Ipswich with a 4-1 scoreline, post-match discussions quickly shifted from the team’s performance to one particular individual who was watching from the stands. As speculation and photos of Jorrel Hato began to circulate on social media, a video surfaced showing the 18-year-old Ajax prodigy delightfully embraced by Virgil van Dijk in the halls behind Anfield.

With the frenzy of speculation settling, we can now analyze what this young player’s presence at Merseyside signifies. As a ball-playing left-back who can also function as an auxiliary central defender, the 6-foot Hato ticks every box and would be a fantastic addition, easily integrated into the club’s ongoing regeneration. The pace and power of the five-cap Netherlands international are already impressive, and under the guidance of his international captain, Virgil van Dijk, Hato could flourish.

Despite it being unknown whether it was a coincidence or whether the weekend was a case of showing a young target what he could achieve and be a part of, the idea of Liverpool’s under-fire Sporting Director, Richard Hughes, making a move that would inject some excitement and ability into the club would be a tremendous one that would appease the fanbase.