How Liverpool Are Benefiting From Euro 2024 and Copa America | OneFootball

International Break: Not as Disastrous for the Reds as Feared

Maybe I just see it a different way, but all these reds not playing in international games isn’t a disaster for me. As Liverpool fans, international breaks often bring a mix of emotions. The fear of injuries looms large, and the disruption to our club’s momentum is always a concern. However, reflecting on the latest international games, things haven’t turned out as badly as they could have for our Reds.

Rested Reds: A Blessing in Disguise

One of the biggest positives from the recent international fixtures is the amount of rest some of our key players have received. Trent Alexander-Arnold, for instance, has been out of favour in the England squad. With Kieran Trippier set to be preferred in the right wing-back position against Switzerland, Trent has enjoyed more downtime, potentially saving his energy for the club season. According to reports, this selection decision is primarily due to Gareth Southgate’s tactical preferences, favouring Trippier’s defensive solidity. Similarly, Ibrahima Konate, Ryan Gravenberch, and Joe Gomez haven’t seen a minute of play for their respective national teams. This enforced rest could be a silver lining, ensuring these players are fresh and ready to contribute to Liverpool’s campaign upon their return.

Photo: IMAGO

Limited Minutes and Early Exits

Other Reds have also seen limited action. Diogo Jota, for example, barely featured for Portugal and is now enjoying a well-deserved holiday. Meanwhile, Cody Gakpo and Virgil van Dijk have been regular fixtures for the Netherlands, playing almost every game. While this is a concern, given the potential for fatigue, both players seem to be handling the workload well so far. Also, Gakpo can hopefully take the reinvigoration into the next campaign. Dominik Szoboszlai and Andy Robertson, on the other hand, were knocked out at the group stage with Hungary and Scotland respectively. Early exits from the tournament mean they, too, will return to Merseyside relatively rested and ready to focus on club duties.

Endo and Salah: A Welcome Break

The extended break for Wataru Endo and Mohamed Salah is another major positive. Neither player is involved in the Olympics, allowing them to enjoy a prolonged rest period. Salah, in particular, is the key man to our attack as everyone knows and his freshness will be vital as we navigate the challenges of the upcoming season. Both looked done in at the end of last season and the Eire return today will be a positive.

Copa America Concerns

The Copa America presents a potential worry, with Alexis Mac Allister, Darwin Nunez, and Alisson Becker all starting regularly for their nations. The physical and mental demands of the tournament are significant, and there is always the risk of injuries. Nunez is flying and Argentina are favourites and it was interesting to hear Slot say how he’s already spoken to Nunez. However, with either Uruguay or Brazil set to exit the tournament tonight, one of our key players will at least be spared further exertion.

Photo: IMAGO

Looking at the Numbers

To quantify the rest our players have received:

– Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6 minutes played in the last two England games.– Ibrahima Konate: 0 minutes played.– Ryan Gravenberch: 0 minutes played.– Joe Gomez: 0 minutes played.– Diogo Jota: 97 minutes across three matches

Hope for the Best

So far, the international break hasn’t been as disruptive as it could have been for Liverpool. Key players have received valuable rest, and while some are heavily involved in their national teams, we must hope they return unscathed. The season ahead is long and grueling, and having a fresh, fit squad will be crucial to our success. Let’s keep our fingers crossed and hope for the best as the break concludes and we get back to club football.