Jurgen Klopp has suggested that Liverpool duo Xherdan Shaqiri and Fabinho are both important members of his side, but has also claimed that both have some improving to do.
The Brazilian in particular has established himself as a key member of the Reds’ side, making 40 appearances in all competitions so far this season, but his manager still thinks he and teammate Shaqiri have more to give.
Speaking to UEFA, as quoted by the club’s official website, Klopp said: “Players such as Fabinho and Shaqiri are very important parts of the team, too.
“But then again, they are not at the top of their game, but they’ve made important steps in their development.
“The journey is not over, not for anyone.”
OPINION
This seems a bit harsh from Klopp, truth be told. Sure, Shaqiri’s form has gone off a bit of cliff in the second half of the season, but he is still a decent option coming on from the bench, and it seems odd for his manager to single him out for criticism, even in its mildest form, ahead of a Champions League final. If Klopp calling out the Swiss is odd, however, him picking out Fabinho is downright baffling. The midfielder has been a vital part of the Reds’ midfield throughout the second half of this season, and has done a really impressive job through a large chunk of the spell. Yes, he could improve in certain areas, but honestly, show me a player who couldn’t. Fabinho has been an absolute rock for the Reds, and you just hope that he knows Klopp’s comments aren’t coming from a place of anger, and that he doesn’t allow them to get his head down ahead of the biggest game of his season.
