Tony Evans Column – Liverpool’s Summer of Power Plays: FSG Seize Their Moment | OneFootball

FSG’s Moment to Dominate

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There are two key things people often overlook about Fenway Sports Group. First, they enjoy winning. John W Henry and his colleagues love lifting trophies and feeling the adoration from supporters. Henry once described the emotional weight of such moments after the Red Sox won the World Series. For him, victory offers a rare kind of validation.

Second, FSG are opportunists. They bought Liverpool when it was undervalued and, this summer, they are acting from a position of strength. Signing Florian Wirtz feels like a landmark moment. He is a player wanted by everyone and he chose Anfield. Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez add further quality. In previous years, that might have been enough, but not this time. Liverpool are going again.

Smart Strategy in a Changing Market

Before the transfer window even opened, some predicted the club could spend £250 million. That may have been an underestimate. Hugo Ekitike wants to join Arne Slot’s project. Even more audacious is Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak. Richard Hughes made contact with encouragement from the striker’s camp. Newcastle are under pressure and Isak has only a year left on his deal.

Profit and Sustainability Rules are playing into Liverpool’s hands. While rivals like Manchester City face charges and Arsenal appear stale, FSG have stability. Henry once joked about needing his own sheikh. Now he doesn’t. Liverpool are on the right side of PSR and the squad is strong in quality, depth and ambition.

Stronger On and Off the Pitch

Slot’s impact and the unexpected title win have accelerated everything. Liverpool now look like the healthiest club in Europe. PSG appear tired, Chelsea are chaotic and Manchester United remain a punchline. Against that backdrop, Liverpool feel clear-headed and unified.

Difficult Road for Academy Talent

One downside of this transformation is the pathway from Kirkby. Under Jürgen Klopp, academy graduates got chances out of necessity. Now, with elite signings arriving, it will be far harder. Players like Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker were game-changers. Richard Hughes is looking for more of that. It may mean saying goodbye to dreams for the next Trent Alexander-Arnold.