McGinlay: “Buzzing, Fearless, Brilliant” – Why Frimpong Fits Arne Slot’s Plans | OneFootball

McGinlay: “There was something special about that boy” – Frimpong to Liverpool Breakdown

Impact at Celtic from Day One

In a revealing episode of the Anfield Index podcast, Jack McIndoe welcomed The Bhoycie Bus host Phil McGinlay to discuss Jeremie Frimpong, Liverpool’s likely next signing. McGinlay offered detailed insights from Frimpong’s time at Celtic, where the Dutchman arrived as a teenage unknown.

“He came in from Manchester City for only £300,000… totally under the radar signing, but what a signing he would turn out to be,” said McGinlay. Within weeks, Frimpong had captured the attention of the fanbase. “That kid caught my eye… most people were coming away from the game going he looked a special talent.”

Frimpong’s explosive debut in a League Cup tie against Partick Thistle set the tone. “There was an excitement about him… he was fearless compared to Lustig, who’d been our right-back for years,” McGinlay added.

Full-Throttle Attacking Profile

Phil McGinlay made clear that Liverpool supporters can expect a dynamic presence down the right. “He’s very much an attacking fullback… getting forward, getting to the by-line, crosses into the box,” he said, citing his raw potential during his Celtic years.

Even then, his attacking instincts were unmistakable: “He wasn’t afraid… just full of energy essentially all about going forward.”

Frimpong’s ability to operate further up the pitch was also noted. “For the Netherlands, he’s played right-mid and right-wing,” McGinlay explained. His adaptability will be key as Arne Slot potentially tweaks Liverpool’s formation and build-up style post-Klopp.

Defensive Development Since Celtic

A critical concern among Reds fans has been Frimpong’s defensive credentials. McGinlay didn’t avoid the topic: “His defending at the time at Celtic… you could see there was a bit of work needed there.” However, his progression is clear. “It’s definitely improved,” he said, noting Frimpong’s growth at Bayer Leverkusen.

Drawing comparisons to Celtic’s Kieran Tierney, McGinlay recalled, “Young and fearless essentially… his debut he was doing that a lot.” And on his size: “He’s definitely bulked up… I don’t think he’ll have too much to worry about.”

He emphasised that Frimpong “wasn’t afraid to go in for a slide tackle” and that with figures like Virgil van Dijk around him at Liverpool, “it will come on leaps and bounds.”

Photo: IMAGO

A Personality Fit for Anfield

Beyond the pitch, McGinlay was effusive about Frimpong’s energy. “Absolutely huge,” he said, when asked about his personality in the dressing room. “His personality… you can’t help but take to him… ‘Oh my days’ became his little buzz term.” He recalled the famous 2019 League Cup Final against Rangers, where Frimpong, then just 18, “basically took one for the team” by conceding a penalty and receiving a red card.

Even in that chaotic moment, his youthful charisma shone. “He’s absolutely exhilarated… just buzzing.” McGinlay believes he will “integrate in no problem at all,” especially alongside familiar Dutch teammates like Van Dijk, Gakpo, and Gravenberch.

Liverpool Move the Logical Next Step

Both McGinlay and McIndoe believe this move makes sense for all parties. “It’s a smart move for him… a smart choice from Liverpool,” McGinlay said. He feels the Premier League will elevate Frimpong further: “Sky’s the limit.”

And when asked about Liverpool’s timing? McGinlay was certain: “It’s going to happen.”