Jeremie Frimpong Lays Down Early Marker in Liverpool Right-Back Debate
Jeremie Frimpong’s arrival at Liverpool has already prompted comparisons with one of the club’s most influential homegrown players in recent history, Trent Alexander-Arnold. Yet the Dutchman, fresh from his stint at Bayer Leverkusen, has wasted no time in setting the tone for what might come next at Anfield.
Arne Slot, who guided Liverpool to a Premier League title in his first season in charge, is clearly shaping a side in his image. Frimpong’s signing fits that mould. He is direct, technically sharp, aggressive in transitions and relentless in the attacking third – attributes that suggest he could thrive in a high-octane system.
Frimpong’s comments during a social media appearance may raise eyebrows, but they also underline a confidence that borders on swagger. Asked to compare right-backs in a TikTok video, Frimpong was posed a simple choice: Trent Alexander-Arnold or Denzel Dumfries? His response was unequivocal. “Dumfries,” he said without hesitation.
Right-Back Evolution Continues
The full-back role at Liverpool has undergone a dramatic shift over the last decade, largely due to the attacking exploits of Alexander-Arnold. Once mocked by Jamie Carragher who famously quipped “no one wants to grow up and be a Gary Neville,” the position has evolved into one of the most tactically demanding on the pitch.
Frimpong epitomises this new breed. He often operated as a wide forward for Leverkusen, stretching opposition lines and contributing heavily to the final third. His pace and dribbling give Liverpool another route forward, and his defensive numbers, while not elite, are serviceable enough within a cohesive unit.
At just 24, Frimpong has the potential to make the position his own, especially as Alexander-Arnold is expected to continue drifting into midfield in Slot’s hybrid system. Still, the comparison between the two is inevitable.
Subtle Swipe or Honest Assessment?
Frimpong’s verdict didn’t stop with Dumfries. When asked to name the best right-back of all time, he chose Cafu, while also citing Achraf Hakimi as another standout ahead of Alexander-Arnold. His hesitation on names like Maicon, Zanetti and Lahm further implied he considers them all to rank higher than his new teammate.
He was also quick to gloss over Gary Neville, an omission that, whether deliberate or instinctive, is unlikely to draw criticism from the Liverpool faithful. If anything, these remarks will earn him favour among supporters who enjoy a bit of tribal needle.
Yet Frimpong wasn’t dismissive of the challenge he faces. Speaking to Sky Sports, he acknowledged the magnitude of the task.
“It’s big shoes but it’s Liverpool, it’s a big team who win trophies for a reason. If you play for Liverpool you have to fill in the shoes and perform. I’ve always believed in myself. I’m a winner. That’s what I’ll bring.”
That mix of humility and self-belief will serve him well, particularly under Slot, who demands both discipline and confidence from his players.
Stakes High as Frimpong Steps Into Spotlight
The reality is that Alexander-Arnold redefined expectations for a right-back at Liverpool. He was central to a Champions League triumph and a Premier League title under Jürgen Klopp, and his ability to dictate play from deep set a new benchmark.
For Frimpong, matching that output is a tall order, but the signs are encouraging. He brings dynamism that could complement Slot’s tactical preferences, especially if Alexander-Arnold moves permanently into midfield. Alongside Conor Bradley, Frimpong is part of a new generation being asked to shoulder legacy and expectation in equal measure.
His early words may divide opinion outside Anfield, but inside it, they suggest he understands what’s required — and perhaps more importantly, that he’s ready for it.
