“Power is with the Players” – Jan Molby on Liverpool’s ‘Tricky’ Contract Situation | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Contract Decisions: Jan Molby on the Future of Salah, Alexander-Arnold, and Gakpo

In the latest Molby on the Spot podcast, Liverpool legend Jan Molby dives deep into the contract situations of some of the club’s most valuable players, including Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Virgil Van Dijk. Speaking with host Trev Downey, Molby examines how Liverpool’s current management, led by Arne Slot, is handling these crucial negotiations and what they mean for the club’s long-term vision.

Liverpool’s Contract Strategy: A Balancing Act of Value and Vision

As Molby sees it, Liverpool’s approach to contract renewals has become more calculated, focusing on balancing immediate needs with long-term goals. He highlights the club’s financial caution, which could influence decisions on players like Salah and Alexander-Arnold, both of whom command high market value. “It’s all about finding a balance,” Molby remarks, noting that while Liverpool remains committed to rewarding key players, there are financial ceilings in place. This strategy underscores Liverpool’s desire to avoid overcommitting financially while maintaining a competitive squad.

For Salah, who has delivered season after season, Molby argues that it’s only natural he expects a contract reflective of his contributions. Salah’s current stats back up his worth, with nine goals and nine assists already this season. Molby expresses disbelief that some fans still don’t see Salah in the same light as other Premier League legends, despite his achievements. “There are still people doubting what they see with their own eyes,” Molby says, underscoring the forward’s underappreciated status despite being “a freak of nature” in terms of consistency.

Alexander-Arnold’s Future: A Position of Strength for Liverpool?

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s situation is slightly different from Salah’s. As Molby and Downey discuss, Liverpool may feel they have more flexibility regarding his contract due to the emerging talent within the squad. Molby hints that Liverpool’s management is prepared for all outcomes, even if it means losing a key player, saying, “Liverpool believe they can replace them.”

Photo: IMAGO

With Conor Bradley’s recent development, Liverpool might be less pressured to retain Alexander-Arnold at any cost. “It’s no longer necessary to compare Conor Bradley to the way Trent played when he was at his best,” Molby explains, indicating that Liverpool’s tactical adjustments under Slot have allowed the team to adapt even if they eventually part with their star right-back.

Molby also notes the financial considerations that come with keeping Alexander-Arnold, especially as the club weighs the benefits of paying him upwards of £300,000 a week versus developing other, younger players. “Do we want to go to £300,000 plus a week for Trent?” Molby asks, reflecting Liverpool’s broader considerations on salary distribution.

Gakpo’s Role in Liverpool’s Long-Term Planning

Cody Gakpo, the newest of Liverpool’s high-value assets, has quickly become integral to the team’s structure under Slot. Molby and Downey acknowledge Gakpo’s growth and tactical fit, positioning him as a potential long-term cornerstone. “Gakpo is my go-to man playing wide left,” Molby reveals, illustrating how Slot and Liverpool’s coaching staff have identified specific roles for key players.

While Gakpo’s contract situation may not be as pressing as Salah’s or Alexander-Arnold’s, Molby’s comments suggest that Liverpool will continue to build around young, adaptable talents like him. Molby believes that Gakpo’s role under Slot’s system exemplifies Liverpool’s shift towards a more cohesive, adaptable squad, with players ready to step up as veterans eventually transition out.

Photo: IMAGO

Financial Discipline and Liverpool’s Path Forward

Throughout the conversation, Molby praises Liverpool’s structured approach to contracts, suggesting that the club’s management feels confident in its decisions. Slot’s influence has brought an added layer of calm and patience, avoiding panic renewals while maintaining focus on the team’s broader strategy. “The powers with the players,” Molby observes, but he stresses Liverpool’s position of strength, choosing not to rush decisions even as contract negotiations grow more complex.

With Salah, Alexander-Arnold, and Gakpo all representing different stages of Liverpool’s future, Molby’s insights reveal a club taking deliberate steps to build sustainably. As he points out, Liverpool fans may have to come to terms with difficult decisions ahead, but the club’s disciplined approach is designed to keep Liverpool competitive while respecting its financial boundaries.