Joe Gomez’s tenure at Liverpool is shrouded in uncertainty following his exclusion from Arne Slot’s squad for the season opener against Ipswich Town. This omission has sparked speculation about his future with the Reds, casting doubt on whether the England international will continue to don the Liverpool jersey as the season progresses.
Gomez has been an integral part of Liverpool’s defense over the years, known for his versatility and ability to step into various defensive roles when needed. However, his absence from the squad in such a pivotal match raises eyebrows, especially given that he has been previously linked with a potential move to Eddie Howe’s Newcastle. The possibility of Gomez finding a new club before the transfer window slams shut on August 30 seems increasingly likely, leaving Liverpool fans to wonder if this is the end of the road for the center-back at Anfield.
James Pearce of The Athletic has added fuel to these speculations, reporting that Gomez’s future at Liverpool is now “increasingly uncertain.” Such statements only heighten the anxiety surrounding his potential departure, especially as Liverpool has yet to secure any senior signings this summer. Although reports suggest that a deal is in progress for Valencia’s Giorgi Mamardashvili, the Reds have not made any significant defensive additions, further complicating the situation.
The prospect of losing Gomez could have serious ramifications for Liverpool’s defensive setup. Joel Matip, a seasoned campaigner, has already left as a free agent, leaving a gap in the squad that is yet to be filled. Gomez’s departure would not only diminish the depth of Liverpool’s defense but also remove a player who has the experience and ability to perform at the highest level. This would inevitably lead to questions about the long-term stability of the team’s backline.
Liverpool does have defensive options in the form of Virgil van Dijk, Jarell Quansah, Ibrahima Konate, and Sepp van den Berg. However, it is debatable whether these players can fully compensate for the loss of a player of Gomez’s caliber. While Quansah and van den Berg are promising talents, they lack the experience and versatility that Gomez brings to the table. Should Nat Phillips be sold, as rumors suggest, the defensive lineup would be stretched even thinner, heightening the risks associated with letting Gomez go.
Ultimately, the idea of allowing Gomez to leave without securing a capable replacement seems fraught with risk. Liverpool would be taking a significant gamble by weakening a defense that has already lost key personnel. A surprise move could be in the offing, but it would be a bold and potentially reckless decision to let Gomez depart without a clear and viable plan to bolster the defense in his absence.