Jeremie Frimpong: What fans could expect from Trent’s replacement

Sports
Okezie Omorogie
May 13, 2025
32

Bayer Leverkusen wing-back, Jeremie Frimpong with a potential move to Liverpool. Photo Credit- Liverpool Echo

The football world is buzzing with anticipation as Liverpool reportedly edges closer to securing the signature of Bayer Leverkusen’s star wing-back, Jeremie Frimpong. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Reds are advancing in talks to trigger Frimpong’s €35 million release clause, with the 24-year-old Dutch international keen on a move to Anfield. As the rumours grows, this piece is set to explore Frimpong’s journey, his stellar record, and what Liverpool fans can expect if this transfer becomes possible.

Frimpong’s journey to stardom

Jeremie Agyekum Frimpong was born on December 10, 2000, in Amsterdam, Netherlands, to Ghanaian parents. His family relocated to England when he was seven, setting the stage for a footballing career that would see him rise through the ranks with remarkable speed. At just nine years old, Frimpong joined Manchester City’s youth academy, where his electrifying pace and tenacity quickly caught attention. However, seeking first-team opportunities, he moved to Celtic in 2019, a decision that proved pivotal.

Frimpong made an immediate impact in Scotland, earning the man-of-the-match award on his debut and scoring his first professional goal in a 4-0 rout of Aberdeen. His performances at Celtic culminated in a Scottish League Cup triumph in 2019, where Celtic defeated Rangers 1-0 in the final. Fans adored his relentless energy, and his attacking flair from the right-back position hinted at a bright future.

In 2021, Frimpong joined Bayer Leverkusen, a move that elevated his game to new heights under Xabi Alonso’s management. Playing as a right wing-back in Alonso’s dynamic 3-4-2-1 system, Frimpong became a key player in Leverkusen’s historic 2023-24 Bundesliga campaign. The team clinched their first-ever Bundesliga title, going unbeaten, an unprecedented record in German top-flight history. Frimpong played a starring role, contributing to a staggering 39 goals and assists alongside teammate Alejandro Grimaldo, a duo names ‘Grimpong’ by fans. His performances earned him a senior debut for the Netherlands in October 2023, making him one of Europe’s most exciting talents.

Wing-back records of Frimpong

Frimpong’s statistical profile shows why Liverpool are so eager to bring him on board. Over his 130 appearances for Leverkusen under Alonso, Frimpong has evolved into a hybrid wing-back who combines defensive solidity with sharp attacks. Here is a breakdown of his 2023-24 season: Frimpong ranks in the 97th percentile among full-backs for non-penalty expected goals (xG) and expected assists (xA) combined, with a per-90-minute rate of 0.35, surpassing even Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold (0.33). His 4.93 touches in the opponent’s penalty area per 90 minutes place him in the 99th percentile, showcasing his ability to penetrate dangerous areas.

In the 2023/24 Bundesliga season, Frimpong contributed 9 goals and 11 assists across all competitions, a remarkable tally for a player in the position of a defender. While Frimpong’s attacking prowess receives media attention, he is equally competent defensively. Leverkusen conceded just 24 goals in the 2023/24 Bundesliga season, the fewest in the league, with Frimpong’s pressing and recovery pace playing a key role. He averages 2.1 tackles and 1.5 interceptions per 90, demonstrating his ability to disrupt opposition attacks. Though often deployed as a wing-back, Frimpong has also played as a right winger, a position that could prove useful for Liverpool, especially with Mohamed Salah’s potential absences during the mid-season Africa Cup of Nations in 2025-26.

Achievements of Frimpong

Frimpong’s career, though still in its early stages, is already decorated with significant achievements: Frimpong was instrumental in Leverkusen’s historic unbeaten season, which culminated in a 5-0 thrashing of Werder Bremen on April 14, 2024, to seal the title and end Bayern Munich’s 11-year dominance. His first senior trophy came with Celtic, a proof of his ability to perform on big stages even as a teenager. Frimpong debuted for the Netherlands senior team in 2023 and was an unused member of their 2022 World Cup squad. Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso has predicted a “big international future” for him, a prophecy that seems well on its way to fulfillment.

What Liverpool fans can expect

Now, to the bone of contention, which this piece intends to settle. If Frimpong’s move to Liverpool materializes, fans at Anfield can brace themselves for a player who brings a unique blend of speed, flair, and tactical intelligence to the pitch. Here is what he might offer: With news spreading about Alexander-Arnold’s potential move to Real Madrid, Frimpong has been put as a replacement. While his passing range does not match Alexander-Arnold’s, Frimpong’s directness and goal-scoring instinct could add a new dimension to Liverpool’s right flank. His ability to play as both a wing-back and a winger gives manager Arne Slot tactical flexibility, especially in a 4-3-3 or 3-4-3 setup.

Frimpong’s pace, which is one of the fastest in the Bundesliga this season makes him a constant threat on the overlap. His 99th-percentile ranking for touches in the opponent’s penalty area suggests he will be a nightmare for Premier League defenders, particularly when combining with Liverpool’s attacking stars like Mohamed Salah or Cody Gakpo. Fans can expect goals, assists, and plenty of spectacular moments. Frimpong’s versatility could see him deployed as a right winger during Salah’s potential absences, such as during the 2025-26 Africa Cup of Nations, where Salah might miss up to 10 games. At 33, Salah’s minutes will need careful management, and Frimpong’s ability to step into an attacking role could provide support without necessarily adding another attacking player.

Conclusion

Jeremie Frimpong’s potential move to Liverpool is more than just a transfer rumor, it is a statement of intent. With his blistering pace, goal-scoring instinct, and proven track record in one of Europe’s top leagues, Frimpong has the tools to thrive at Anfield. While challenges like adapting to the Premier League’s physicality remain, his versatility and work ethic suggest he’s ready for the step up. For Liverpool fans, Frimpong could be the spark that ignites another golden era. As the transfer talks progress, the Reds might soon be chanting for a new hero one who’s already proven he can make history. If Frimpong dons the famous red jersey, expect fireworks on the right flank and a player who leaves everything on the pitch. The future looks bright, and Jeremie Frimpong could be the next big piece in Liverpool’s puzzle.