Liverpool Star Faces Departure as Season Nears Conclusion
Jurgen Klopp won’t stand alone in bidding farewell to Liverpool this season, as a Reds player drops hints about an impending departure.
The summer transfer window saw a slew of exits, with notable figures like Jordan Henderson, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Fabinho, Naby Keita, Roberto Firmino, and James Milner finding new homes.
While a major squad overhaul may not be on the horizon, Sepp van den Berg has openly acknowledged that his prospects for regular first-team action are dimming.
Liverpool secured the 6ft 4 center-back from Dutch side PEC Zwolle in 2019, successfully fending off competition from Bayern Munich and Ajax. Van den Berg made four cup appearances in his debut season, notably marking his entrance with a standout performance in a 5-5 draw against Arsenal.
However, the promising start has since given way to loan spells. His initial stint at Preston in the Championship was followed by a season at Schalke. The 22-year-old is currently with Klopp’s former club Mainz, where he has featured in 24 matches across various competitions.
Despite showcasing his talent and holding a three-year contract with Liverpool, Van den Berg faces the reality that regular playing time may elude him. With Joel Matip set to depart, he recognizes the need to seek opportunities elsewhere.
“If I go back to Liverpool, they might want me to stay. If I see that I won’t get much game time, then I might choose to leave. It’s really important to me that I play,” Van den Berg disclosed to Voetbal Nieuws, as reported by the Liverpool Echo.
Reflecting on his past years, he expressed uncertainty about securing a starting position alongside Virgil van Dijk. While confident in his abilities to compete at Liverpool, he acknowledges the formidable challenge posed by defenders like Virgil and Konate.
“In previous years, I didn’t feel like I would be starting next to Virgil. I don’t know yet what my chances will be like next summer. I think I’m doing well. I can handle playing at Liverpool. I can compete. But being a starter is different. Virgil and Konate are not easy to beat. I know it will be hard.”