Since his arrival at Liverpool in 2018, Liverpool supporters have had high expectations of Naby Keïta. The Guinea international's performances have suffered from inconsistency.
Naby Keita is like a firefly. Sometimes stunning, sometimes lackluster, Keïta can't string together good outings on a regular basis. Having arrived at Liverpool in 2018 for a fee of around €63 million, his recruitment is now a big debate among Liverpool supporters. His brilliant pass for Sadio against Villarreal (2-3) shows that he has the potential of a great player.
Naby Keïta has different opinions. For much of his time at Anfield, he has created two completely polarized camps. Some argue that he is not a good fit. Others, however, argue the opposite," reads one site.
Excellent at getting the ball out, there is no denying Keita's consistency in the Reds squad. For much of his Liverpool career, he has been in the infirmary. Now that his health worries are over, Keïta is back in the game. He is playing regularly in the league and in the Champions League.
This year, Keïta has made 34 appearances, scoring four goals and providing three assists in all competitions. All this for 22 starts and 12 substitutions. This is the first time Keïta has played so many games for the Reds. In 2018-2019, his first year, he was at 33 games, 3 goals and 1 assist. The following season, it was 27 outings, 4 goals and 3 assists. In the 2020-2021 season, Keïta will have his worst season in England with only 16 appearances, no goals and no "D" assists.
Thiago, his real rival
Even if he has regained his form, the Guinean has still not become a first team fixture. But Keïta plays more anyway. Thiago had come to overshadow him. However, the African is resisting the charge of the Spaniard (34 matches, 2 goals, 3 assists) who arrived at the club last season.
Keita, who is under contract until 2023, has yet to decide whether or not to extend his contract with the Reds. Thiago and Keïta both specialize in vertical play and line-breaking passing, so there is bound to be a choice between the two. And if it were up to some supporters, Keïta could be sold. Even if his age (27) is an asset. It's a good thing that Henderson is in the twilight of his career. Keeping Keïta would be the wisest decision for the Mersyside club's board.
