Liverpool Wonderkid, Once Alongside Trent Alexander-Arnold, Now Unemployed at 26

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s inaugural start for Liverpool back in October 2016 set the stage for a contrasting trajectory with another budding talent from the academy.

In that League Cup clash against Spurs, where Daniel Sturridge netted twice and Vincent Janssen scored a consolation penalty in a 2-1 win for Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold showcased his promise for 68 minutes before Nathaniel Clyne took over.

However, the spotlight that night also fell on Ovie Ejaria, who marked his full 90-minute appearance at Anfield. Despite his stint in Arsenal’s academy, Ejaria made just eight appearances that season for Liverpool, concluding with a 74-minute play in a 2-1 FA Cup loss against Wolves.

Subsequent loans to Sunderland and Rangers, playing under Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard, were part of Ejaria’s journey. But his Rangers spell ended prematurely in 2018, leading to a temporary move to Reading in January 2019, which became permanent in August 2020 for £3.5 million.

While Ejaria made 72 appearances for Reading, a persistent injury setback kept him sidelined for a year. Upon his return, criticisms emerged regarding his commitment and readiness to play for the club.

Despite efforts to regain form with the Under 21’s, Ejaria’s journey with Reading abruptly concluded as the club quietly released him last month. Citing injury woes limiting his game time and a need to reduce expenses, Reading parted ways with Ejaria, whose contract was due to expire in the summer.

Having last played in November 2022, Ejaria is now on the hunt for a new club.