Liverpool’s Naby Keita has flattered to deceive throughout this Premier League campaign so far. Since his big-money move from Red Bull Leipzig last summer, the Guinean midfielder has failed to establish himself in Jurgen Klopp’s starting XI despite showing some glimpses of his brilliance on the pitch from time to time. However, he needs to be more productive in the opposition half or else risk being dropped from the Reds first-team.
Hence, it is essential for him to put on a strong showing in front of the loyal Liverpool supporters, now more than ever. The upcoming clash against Manchester United could be a season-defining game for both teams but for very different reasons. The Reds are fighting for their first Premier League title in 30 years while Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s men are still hoping to secure a top 4 place at the end of this campaign.
So this match could be an ideal platform for someone like Naby Keita, who has still not announced himself to the Premier League, to make a mark and finally showcase what he is capable of by making a difference on Sunday. The Guinean international has gradually improved with his performances in recent weeks.
He was full of energy and running against Bayern Munich in midweek and even managed to keep the likes of James Milner out of the Liverpool first-team.
Klopp has clearly seen something in him to believe that he merits a regular starting place at Liverpool so it would be foolish to second guess the manager. Keita is blessed with an incredible turn of pace which helps him dribble with the ball and beat his marker in the opposition half. He also has an eye for a killer pass in the final third as evidenced by his last-minute through ball against West Ham United earlier this month.
The fact remains that Keita has still not scored and has only one assist to his name in 25 appearances for the Merseyside giants this season in all competitions. Hence, we feel that it might be time for him to either sink or swim for the Reds over the next few weeks.
So don’t be surprised if he ends up making the difference in this upcoming match at Old Trafford when an in-form Man United side looks to deter Liverpool’s title hopes and boost their own Champions League chances for next season. The 24-year-old will definitely be a player to look out for if he gets the nod to start for Liverpool this weekend.
