Liverpool’s Future Shaped by Michael Olise Talk and Jarrell Quansah Clause
The Daily Red podcast has once again placed Liverpool’s future under the microscope, with Guy Drinkel steering the discussion across awards, transfers and long-term planning. With Arne Slot’s reign already decorated by an immaculate start, attention has naturally shifted towards two names that may shape the club’s future trajectory: Michael Olise and Jarrell Quansah.
Flying Start and Early Recognition
Liverpool’s perfect opening to the Premier League season has already delivered nominations for both manager and player of the month. “Arne Slot is up for manager of the month with our perfect start to the season, nine points out of nine,” Drinkel noted, highlighting Liverpool’s start
The player conversation was equally lively. Drinkel pointed out how new arrival Hugo Ekitike “started the season so well” and praised Dominik Szoboszlai, describing his performances at right-back as “bloody sensational.” Recognition for players so early, as Drinkel emphasised, shows how Slot has fostered a competitive edge within the squad.
Michael Olise Identified as Salah Successor
Perhaps the most eye-catching section of the podcast centred on ex-Crystal Palace and Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise. Drinkel was unequivocal in his admiration, saying, “He was phenomenal, like he was probably the most exciting player in the league.”
Lewis Steele, whose work was referenced in the discussion, reportedly identified Olise as a long-term successor to Mohamed Salah. Drinkel underlined the logic, noting that the Frenchman “is just phenomenal, maybe he doesn’t have the goal scoring capability of Mo Salah, not many players do, but we just kind of signed a striker for 125 million who might be able to do that.”
He continued, “If we get him next summer or the summer after, he’d be 24, 25, start of his peak, and he is just phenomenal.” That sentiment encapsulates the scale of Liverpool’s ambition, with Drinkel further observing that targeting talents of Olise’s calibre “shows a hell of a lot of ambition this summer.”
The conversation even drifted towards the hypothetical front line that could emerge. “A front four of Isak up front, Wirtz behind, Olise on the right, and then would Rio be ready? Maybe he’s going to be one of those freaks who’s just the best player in the world.” For Liverpool fans, the prospect is tantalising.
Jarrell Quansah Buyback Sparks Debate
Another key talking point came when Drinkel addressed Jarrell Quansah’s situation after his move to Bayer Leverkusen. He revealed, “Liverpool have contract terms agreed with Jarrell Quansah if buyback is triggered.”
Reflecting on Quansah’s performances, Drinkel recalled, “The last Klopp year, he was obviously really good. There were some mistakes in there, he’s a young defender… but he does look tailor made for the Premier League.”
Drinkel stressed that the club’s long-term defensive planning makes the clause invaluable. “If he develops, I mean, at this stage Ibou is going in a year… we need to replace homegrown players eventually.” The idea of Liverpool bringing Quansah back once he matures at the top level is both strategic and symbolic, showing how the club has built safeguards into its transfer business.
Academy Investment Points to Bright Future
The episode also touched on the upcoming £20 million redevelopment of Liverpool’s academy. For Drinkel, it linked seamlessly with the broader theme of succession planning and youth integration. “It’s probably a worthy investment,” he said, recognising how strengthening Kirkby ensures the club continues to produce and attract elite young talent.
From Michael Olise to Jarrell Quansah, the Daily Red conversation painted a vivid picture of a Liverpool side that is not standing still. With Slot delivering immediate results, and future moves already plotted, the podcast highlighted how the club’s present and future are carefully aligned.
