Is Curtis Jones Liverpool’s Most Important Midfielder? | OneFootball

Is Curtis Jones Liverpool’s Most Important Midfielder?

There is a persistent misconception about Curtis Jones, especially among rival fans, but that narrative is rapidly changing. This senior professional, who emerged from the prestigious Liverpool academy, has triumphed over a rocky start in his initial seasons. Jones has seized the opportunities given to him, proving that he is far more than just a backup option.

In the latter half of the 2022/23 season, former Anfield manager Jürgen Klopp made a crucial decision by integrating the 6-foot-2-inch attacking midfielder into the lineup, prompted by the failures of underperforming players. This decision has been validated time and time again, as the £50 million-rated Jones continues to excel and silence his sceptics.

What Is Curtis’s Current Level?

To my disbelief, segments of the Liverpool fanbase still question Curtis Jones’s footballing quality. Following a standout performance in his first senior international appearance for England, he has firmly established his presence on the international stage.

Liverpool supporters have witnessed the impressive growth of Ryan Gravenberch, who has transitioned into a multifunctional midfielder occupying the critical No. 6 role. Alongside World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister, Gravenberch has solidified his position as a key figure in the midfield this season. Additionally, Dominik Szoboszlai, the Hungarian captain who joined at the start of Klopp’s final season, has quickly become an indispensable part of the midfield unit.

In stark contrast, Wataru Endō, the Japan captain, has struggled to find a place in the starting eleven. Meanwhile, Curtis Jones has steadily asserted himself as an essential player for his new manager, Arne Slot, particularly after overcoming injury setbacks. Once confined to an attacking role, Jones has evolved into a versatile midfielder capable of excelling in any of the three positions within the current system. His ability to control the pace of the game is vital in maintaining rhythm, and his press-resistant style enables dynamic movement, creating various attacking opportunities.

Placed in the No. 6 position, he would effectively replicate the role he mastered as captain of the England under-21 team, which won the European Championship in 2023. His function as a progressive midfielder aligns perfectly with his natural style of play, underscoring his versatility. Despite being an academy product who cost the club nothing in transfer fees, Jones is now operating at an elite level.

What Is Curtis Jones’ Potential?

Trent Alexander-Arnold, another prominent academy graduate, burst onto the scene and has consistently performed at elite standards. While their paths may have diverged, it is clear that both players possess remarkably high ceilings. Alexander-Arnold, the club’s vice-captain, consistently garners interest from top European clubs like Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. In the same vein, Curtis Jones has the talent and drive to become a £100 million-rated player.

While some may highlight other midfield options, there is no doubt in my mind that Curtis Jones is on the verge of becoming Arne Slot’s most valuable midfielder, positioning himself as a cornerstone for the club’s long-term success. Though the recent weekend game (2-3 win away to Southampton) was not the most brilliant of displays by Curtis, his inclusion from the start surely signifies his absolute importance to the team. After Manchester City fell to an astounding 0-4 loss at home to Spurs, Liverpool’s game on the south coast became a must win encounter, therefore, to entrust the Reds superb English midfielder is testament to his standing in the group.