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Liverpool signed best young player in the world in club-record deal

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A number of Liverpool players were named in FourFourTwo’s Top 100 Young Players of 2001 – but the list has not aged well

Liverpool’s academy has produced some incredible players during the Premier League era.

Steven McManaman, Robbie Fowler, Jamie Carragher, Michael Owen, and Steven Gerrard famously all starred for the Reds after bursting onto the scene in the nineties, while the likes of Dominic Matteo and David Thompson also broke through at the same time.
Fast forward to the present day and Trent Alexander-Arnold, Curtis Jones, and Caoimhin Kelleher are vital members of Jurgen Klopp’s first team squad after graduating from the Academy, while the likes of Harvey Elliott and Stefan Bajcetic snapped up for the youth ranks during their mid-teens.
And the Academy conveyor belt is showing no signs of slowing down, with the likes of Ben Doak, Bobby Clark, Conor Bradley, and Jarell Quansah all becoming the next players to take decisive first team steps in 2023/24.

However, the Reds’ academy hasn’t always been the ‘gold mine’ it is today. Throughout the noughties, it was regularly rued how Gerrard remained the last graduate to become a key first team player.
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Considering how fruitful the nineties had been, mentioned alongside Manchester United’s class of ‘92, onlookers were baffled at Liverpool’s failure to unearth the next Gerrard, Owen, or Carragher. In the end it took multiple changes behind the scenes, overseen by the likes of Rafa Benitez and Brendan Rodgers, before the Reds truly got back on path under Klopp.

But that didn’t prevent Liverpool from boasting a number of highly-rated youngsters that ultimately didn’t quite live up to expectations during their barren run. And FourFourTwo’s list of the 100 best players in world football in 2001 demonstrates this extremely well.

Six Reds players featured in the list, with all placing in the top 40 and two in the top 10. Meanwhile, three future Liverpool players would make up the top five, with one future academy signing taking their overall contingent to 10. Yet, looking back, only one of those can actually claim to have actually been one of the best stars of their generation.

A number of the greatest players of the 21st century feature among the list. But when you consider 2007 Ballon d’Or winner Kaka, who lifted both the World Cup and Champions League during his illustrious playing career, only placed 95th, you have an idea about the direction we’re about to take.

Congratulations, Kaka! Back in 2001, you were rated higher than Alexander Hleb, David Prutton, Erdal Kilicaslan, Daniyel Cimen, and Benjamin Auer! Don’t worry, we can’t recall that latter trio either. Alas, Shaun Maloney and Kieran Richardson both placed higher than the legendary Brazilian in places 100-91.

Breaking into the eighties, we have our first future Liverpool player. Ramon Calliste. Then of Manchester United, he won the FA Youth Cup with the club in 2003 but left the Red Devils for the Reds in 2005 and was the reserves’ top goalscorer in 2005/06.

The Welshman joined Scunthorpe United after just one season, on the advice of national team manager John Toshack, but badly dislocated his ankle in his first pre-season. That injury ensured he could never live up to his early potential and forced him to walk away from the game.

Working our way down the list, you can spot the recognisable names of Dimitar Berbatov at 82nd, Michael Essien at 78th, and Championship Manager legend Cherno Samba at 71st!

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Liverpool were actually once in talks to sign the striker from Millwall, even tabling a £1.5m bid only to fail to agree a deal with the Lions. The move fell through and Samba never lived up to his potential, with that collapsed transfer to Anfield ultimately sending him on a downward spiral.

Samba would eventually move to Spanish side Cadiz, later spending time with Malaga B, Plymouth Argyle, Wrexham, Haka, Panetolikos and FK Tonsberg before injury forced a premature retirement when just 29 years old in July 2015.

Moving on and Matteo Brighi, then of Juventus, is next on the list in 70th. Another video game legend, he was bizarrely the highest-rated player in FIFA 2003 with an incredible rating of 97. Ronaldo (Brazilian, not Cristiano), is the only player in the history of the game to ever be rated higher than EA. Curiously, not in 2002/03 though, despite just starring at the World Cup and winning that year’s Ballon d’Or.

That’s right, Lionel Messi and Ronaldo (Cristiano, not Brazilian) are ‘worse’ than Brighi, from a certain point of virtual view. Anyway, Juventus would sell the midfielder to Parma that same summer as injuries ensured he never lived up to his potential. Spotting a recurring theme here? Anyway, we digress…

There are a few recognisable names between 70th and 40th, with Joaquin of Real Betis in 42nd easily the most successful, but you can check out the full list at the bottom of the article if you want the full yesteryear experience.

Which brings us to our first then Liverpool player! Chris Kirkland placed 38th! Not bad for a goalkeeper who was tipped to be a future England number one.

Signing from Coventry City in a £6m deal in September 2001, he became the most expensive goalkeeper in British transfer history, at only 20 years old. However, injuries would ultimately derail his time at Anfield.

Making 45 appearances in five years, he was part of the side that won the Champions League in 2005 and had actually ousted Jerzy Dudek as first-choice under Benitez earlier that season. Yet a back injury ensured he missed the second half of that campaign and missed the final.

Permanent moves to Wigan Athletic, Sheffield Wednesday, Preston North End, and Bury followed before he retired in 2016 after a four-year battle with depression. Thankfully, Kirkland is in a better place these days, is a regular in the Anfield press box and works closely with the LFC Foundation.

Strikers Dean Ashton and Zlatan Ibrahimovic placed 36th and 35th respectively, with Gareth Barry 31st. If not for a stubborn Martin O’Neill and Aston Villa, we’d have another Liverpool representative.

But then edging in ahead of Jermain Defoe, we have the Reds’ next then-player to make the cut in defender Gregory Vignal. The Frenchman made 20 appearances for the Reds after joining the club in September 2000, and enjoyed an extended run in the starting XI at the beginning of the 2001/02 season.

However, a fractured foot derailed his progress and ruled him out of the season. After a number of loan moves, he joined Portsmouth in 2005, and had stints with Lens, Birmingham City, Atromitos, Dundee United, and AS Beziers before retiring in 2013. Now a coach, he was appointed assistant manager at FC Versailles earlier this summer.

Skimming over the likes Arjen Robben, Maicon, and Ricardo Quaresma, Milan Baros takes 21st in FourFourTwo’s list. Signed from Banik Ostrava for £3.2m in 2002, the striker burst onto the scene at Anfield in the 2002/03 season as he scored a respectable 12 goals.

Recovering from a broken ankle suffered in September 2003, he won the Golden Boot at Euro 2004 as Czech Republic reached the semi-finals, before finishing as Liverpool’s leading goalscorer in the 2004/05 season with 13 goals as they won the Champions League.

That wasn’t enough to retain his place in Benitez’s plans though, as he was sold to Aston Villa in a £6.5m deal. Moves to Lyon and Galatasaray, and Antalyaspor followed, before injury forced his retirement in 2020 after a number of stints back in his native Czech Republic.

Into the top 20 now. The big leagues, and what a start with Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta placed 20th. Six places ahead of him we have our next Liverpool entrant – John Welsh.

Once tipped to be a ‘next Gerrard’, Welsh never lived up to such hype. He made just 10 appearances for the Reds before being traded with Hull City for young winger Paul Anderson in January 2006.

Permanent stints with Tranmere Rovers, Preston North End, and Grimsby Town followed, with Welsh spending the majority of his playing career as a League One midfielder, before he dropped into non-league with Atherton Collieries and Stafford Rangers. He is now a professional development phase (U18 and U16) coach back at Preston North End.

Into the top 10 and French cousins Anthony Le Tallec and Florent Sinama-Pongolle are ranked ninth and seventh respectively. In 2001 they had already been signed by Liverpool after starring at the FIFA Under-17s World Cup, but remained on loan at Le Havre for two more years.

Officially moving to Anfield in 2003, both would play their part in the Reds’ run to winning the Champions League in 2005 but ultimately never lived up to early expectations. Le Tallec made 32 appearances for the club, scoring once, before returning to France permanently with Le Mans in 2008 after a number of loan moves away.

Stints with Auxerre and Valenciennes followed, suffering relegation with both, before moves to Greece and Romania with Atromitos and Astra Giurgiu. He’d then return to France with Orleans, before finishing his career with Annecy in 2021.

As for Pongolle, he fared slightly better. Scoring nine goals in 65 appearances for Liverpool, the one-time France international left for La Liga in 2006 and impressed with Recreativo de Huelva and Atletico Madrid. However, his fortunes flailed after an unsuccessful move to Sporting Lisbon.

Consequently, he’d take

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Report: Manchester United Star Set to Leave the Club in 2025; Others to Follow

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Report: Manchester United Star Set to Leave the Club in 2025; Others to Follow

 

Christian Eriksen Set for Manchester United Exit in 2025 – What’s Next?

In a recent report from TeamTalk, it appears that Christian Eriksen’s time at Manchester United could be coming to an end as soon as 2025. The Danish midfielder, who joined the Red Devils in the summer of 2022, may be one of the first departures next summer according to Spanish sources. Despite his solid first season at Old Trafford, Eriksen has found himself falling down the pecking order. With his contract nearing its end, Manchester United seem unlikely to offer an extension, raising questions about his future.

Eriksen’s Contract Situation

Eriksen, who signed for Manchester United on a free transfer after proving his fitness at Brentford, has been a reliable and experienced option for Erik ten Hag. His initial season saw him make 44 appearances, but last year, the rise of young talent Kobbie Mainoo pushed him further out of the spotlight. While Eriksen’s £150,000-a-week wage isn’t astronomical by modern football standards, it’s a significant figure for a player in his 30s who isn’t a guaranteed starter.

According to TeamTalk, there are ‘no doubts’ at Manchester United that Eriksen will leave at the end of his contract in 2025. The report from Spanish outlet Fichajes adds that Eriksen ‘is set to become Manchester United’s first confirmed departure at the end of the current season.’ This aligns with United’s strategy of trimming an ageing squad, especially when significant wages are involved.

Eriksen’s Commitment to Manchester United

Despite the speculation around his future, Eriksen remains fully committed to United for what is likely his final season. In an interview with Wandsworth Times, he spoke openly about his dedication to the club: “I feel very good being at United. If they told me to leave I would leave but I didn’t hear that.”

When pressed about his future, Eriksen remained focused on the present season, stating: “There’s one year left so my focus is going to be on this year, going full out and see what happens afterwards.” His professionalism is undeniable, and United fans can expect the Dane to give his all until the very end.

Who Else Could Leave Manchester United in 2025?

Eriksen is just one of several Manchester United players who could depart next summer. As reported by TeamTalk, five other stars are also approaching the end of their contracts.

Tom Heaton: The 38-year-old goalkeeper has been a positive influence in the dressing room but may be nearing the end of his United career.

Jonny Evans: At 36, the veteran defender has been a reliable presence but could make way for younger players.

Harry Maguire: With speculation about his future continuing to swirl, the England defender could leave as his contract runs out.

Victor Lindelof: The Swedish centre-back is out of contract in 2025, and it remains to be seen if United will offer him a new deal.

Amad Diallo: The young winger is a promising talent, but his contract situation will need to be resolved soon.

This potential mass exodus reflects a need for Manchester United to rejuvenate their squad. With Erik ten Hag under pressure for some of his transfer decisions, the summer of 2025 could mark a significant turning point in his tenure.

Manchester United’s Transfer Plans

While Eriksen’s exit seems inevitable, Manchester United are already planning for the future. They’ve been linked with several high-profile names, including Croatian midfielder Martin Baturina. According to TeamTalk, United have surged ahead of Real Madrid in the race to sign Baturina, who has impressed with five assists in eight games this season. Additionally, Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Jonathan Tah is reportedly on United’s radar as a free agent target for next summer.

These potential signings signal a clear intent from Manchester United to rebuild and strengthen key areas. With Eriksen’s departure likely, the focus will shift to finding creative and dynamic midfield options to fill the void.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For many Manchester United fans, news of Christian Eriksen’s impending exit will be met with a mixture of sadness and acceptance. Eriksen has been a steady influence on the pitch, but the reality is that the team needs to move forward with younger, more dynamic players if they want to compete at the highest level.

Kobbie Mainoo’s emergence is a sign of the direction Manchester United are heading in. While Eriksen still offers plenty of experience and class, the pace of the modern game is unforgiving for players in their 30s. Erik ten Hag seems intent on shaping a squad that is not only talented but built for longevity. Players like Eriksen, while valuable, may no longer fit that vision.

From a tactical perspective, Eriksen’s departure could open up space for a more energetic, box-to-box midfielder who can provide both defensive cover and attacking impetus. United’s reported interest in Martin Baturina aligns with this need, as he’s shown the ability to create chances from deep and provide assists—something Eriksen has been known for throughout his career.

For fans, the thought of Eriksen leaving brings a sense of nostalgia, but also excitement for what’s to come. The club has been in a state of transition for years, and moves like these are necessary for long-term success. The key will be ensuring that the next wave of players can not only fill the boots of outgoing veterans but exceed them.

As Manchester United look to the future, the challenge will be balancing experience with youth, and Eriksen’s farewell may be one of the first steps in that process.

 

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Samuel Lusale’s move finally confirmed as wonderkid pictured with Man United jersey at Old Trafford

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Samuel Lusale’s move finally confirmed as wonderkid pictured with Man United jersey at Old Trafford

 

Not only the first team but INEOS also made sure the Manchester United academy was strengthened with quite a few high-profile additions made over the summer.

Sekou Kone was quite the capture and has already been tipped to make his breakthrough in his debut campaign itself with his name included in the Premier League squad submitted to the league by the club.

Other prominent captures include Samuel Lusale from Crystal Palace, James Overy, formerly of Perth Glory in Australia and former Arsenal academy striking sensation Chido Obi-Martin.

However, all three deals needed ratification from the FA and the league and that took quite a while but recently, as relayed by The Peoples Person, both Lusale and Overy have received the necessary clearances.

Lusale to United confirmed

The former Eagles academy star recently confirmed his departure from the London club and now, his move to the Red Devils has been confirmed with the 17-year-old spotted at Old Trafford.

The Secret Scout, a reputable source for youth football news, uploaded a picture on X (formerly Twitter) showing the Slovakia U18 international standing at Old Trafford posing with the No 7 jersey.

BOOM 💥 Samuel Lusale to Manchester United officially complete 🔴 ☑️

The account also revealed that the 20-time English league champions had to fend off competition from England, Italy and Germany to land Lusale.

He can play as an attacking midfielder and out wide with versatility a highly valued trait in modern football.

Lusale tipped for the top

The player is slated to initially join up with United’s all-conquering U18 side but is expected to move up quickly to the reserve level.

Palace tried desperately to hold on to the teen ace but Lusale rejected a scholarship offer in favour of a move to Old Trafford.

The move was confirmed after the 20-time English league champions agreed a compensation package with the Eagles.

Now, only Obi-Martin remains to receive the all-clear to complete his move to United. Hopefully, that will be tied up as soon as possible.

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Exclusive: Exciting Man Utd 17-Year-Old ‘Not Ready for Breakout Season’

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Exclusive: Exciting Man Utd 17-Year-Old ‘Not Ready for Breakout Season’

Manchester United starlet Harry Amass was not included in the matchday squad for the Carabao Cup hammering of Barnsley as boss Erik ten Hag has decided that the Old Trafford youngster is not ready to enjoy a breakthrough season in the first-team, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.

Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho and Christian Eriksen grabbed braces, while Antony got his name on the scoresheet from the penalty spot, as the Red Devils cruised to their biggest victory since the Dutch tactician took charge thanks to completing a 7-0 rout of their League One opponents earlier this week.

Although Manuel Ugarte was handed the opportunity to make his first start since joining Manchester United in a deal worth up to £50.5million from Paris Saint-Germain during the closing stages of the summer transfer window, Amass was unable to work his way into ten Hag’s plans for the encounter.

Amass Must Develop Further Before Selection

Red Devils feel teen needs to prepare for higher level of physicality

Amass is not on course to enjoy a breakout season at Manchester United during the current campaign as ten Hag is adamant that he needs to continue developing his game before being ready for first-team action, according to GMS sources, which resulted in fellow youngster Toby Collyer getting the nod to start at left-back against Barnsley.

The 17-year-old was named on the bench seven times last term, including for the FA Cup semi-final clash with Coventry City, but he is still seeking his senior debut and will be forced to remain patient in the coming months as he is not at the forefront of the Red Devils’ plans despite Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia remaining on the treatment table.

Although there was some surprise within the Manchester United fanbase at Amass’ omission from the matchday squad when Barnsley headed to Old Trafford, GMS sources have been informed that there is a feeling behind the scenes that he needs more time to prepare for the level of physicality at the top level, along with the amount of pressure and expectation.

Harry Amass’ statistics at youth level

Club

Appearances

Goals

Assists

Yellow cards

Sent off

Manchester United under-18s

17

1

3

3

0

Manchester United under-21s

6

0

3

3

0

Manchester United under-19s

2

0

0

0

0

Watford under-18s

2

0

0

0

0

Statistics correct as of 18/09/2024

The exciting left-sided full-back enjoyed a decent pre-season as he was involved with the first-team squad, but his only game time since the campaign got underway has come in the form of three appearances for the Red Devils’ under-21 squad, and he grabbed an assist in a Bristol Street Motors Trophy win over Barnsley.

Manchester United technical director Jason Wilcox was eager for the likes of Amass to be involved during the closing stages of last term as he was keen to assess whether he should be considered a first-team squad member, GMS previously reported, but ten Hag chose to head in an alternative direction as he chased European qualification and FA Cup glory.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Harry Amass registered 82 per cent pass accuracy, won nine ground duels, completed seven tackles and made four key passes during Manchester United’s Bristol Street Motors Trophy win over Barnsley last month

Ten Hag Still Viewing Amass as Future Talent

Left-back will be handed opportunities further down the line

Although Amass is not currently in the first-team picture at Manchester United, meaning he is not in contention to be involved against Crystal Palace on Saturday, GMS sources have been told that there are still high hopes for the teenager to make a name for himself at Old Trafford and eventually progress into the forefront of ten Hag’s plans.

The former Watford sensation, who was named in the matchday squad once before leaving Vicarage Road for the Red Devils, has been pinpointed as having a bright future ahead of him after there has been the success of academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo making the leap into senior action within the last 12 months.

But Amass is being forced to continue playing the waiting game before being handed a chance, and GMS sources understand that there will be opportunities further down the line as there is belief within Manchester United that he has the ability to eventually work his way into the picture amid Shaw and Malacia’s ongoing injury issues.

 

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