Liverpool’s Midfield Puzzle: Cherki, Rovella and Bajcetic Under the Microscope
Cherki’s Creativity
In the latest episode of Transfer Market Metrics by Anfield Index, Dave Davis and Dr Phil Barter delved deep into the data behind three midfield prospects who could shape—or shake—Liverpool’s midfield future. While Arne Slot now commands the technical area at Anfield, this forensic analysis provided a lens through which fans and analysts alike can evaluate what’s needed in the post-Klopp era.
Rayan Cherki is a name that’s often met with raised eyebrows and eager intrigue. Davis summed it up succinctly: “All the attacking talent in the world, brilliant creativity. Defensively, absolutely non-existent.” It’s a hard truth for a player whose highlight reel dazzles but whose off-ball metrics raise doubts. He continued, “Could you carry him and Mo Salah in the same team? I think the other eight outfield players might have a bit to say.” The implication is stark: pairing two defensive liabilities on the flanks may prove fatal against high-calibre Premier League opposition.
Rovella’s Metrics Paint a Metronomic Picture
Nicolo Rovella’s numbers suggested a safer, perhaps too-safe, midfield option. Labelled as “metronomic” and likened to Zubimendi by Davis, Rovella is reliable but unambitious in possession. Barter noted, “In terms of passing, pass completion 88th percentile and passes attempted 91st… but the only disappointing thing is not more of those are aggressive.”
This was echoed with concern: “If you’re going to marry him up or give an alternative [to Gravenberch], you’d like him to be doing stuff that Grav doesn’t do.” That concern was deepened by his physical limitations. “179 cm. Grav, 190. We’re talking 11 centimetres… and 10 kilos difference. At elite Premier League level, that’s massive,” Barter emphasised.
Bajcetic: Between Promise and Uncertainty
Of the three, Stefan Bajcetic stirs the most debate—perhaps because his story is already a Liverpool one. Now on loan at Las Palmas, his time away hasn’t clarified much. Davis observed, “People will hop back to that couple of years ago, but it was a couple of years ago.” The metrics show defensive promise—“99th percentile in blocks,” said Barter—but his passing is well below Liverpool’s expected standards: “Pass completion in the 8th percentile for a midfielder.”
Barter’s take was candid: “Badge might could do with another loan… He needs to go and play somewhere.” It’s a notion echoed throughout the episode, with both contributors agreeing that “for a 20-year-old, he just needs to play elsewhere.”
Slot’s Dilemma: Progression vs Physicality
As the discussion closed, it became clear that none of the three names seem ideal in solving Liverpool’s midfield equation. With Mo Salah continuing to be a guaranteed starter and the Premier League demanding intensity, dynamism, and strength, it’s no surprise Davis concluded: “Three that it’s hard to see in a Liverpool shirt.”
Rovella might be steady, but doesn’t offer enough upside over current options. Cherki dazzles, but leaves too many gaps. And Bajcetic, while loved, still needs time—“He’s at a big big crossroads,” Barter warned.
Slot and Liverpool’s recruitment team have big decisions to make. What is clear is that metrics matter more than ever—and these three players, while talented, might not yet be the answer.
