© IMAGO – Arne Slot Richard Hughes Liverpool Transfers 2024-25
There are mixed reactions regarding the deal completed with Liverpool. Was it the right decision?
In 2025, Liverpool made a significant number of transactions as they revamped their squad, an unexpected move considering they had just clinched the Premier League title.
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However, they let go of many talented players both on loan and permanently, including stars like Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz.
Additionally, several players like Jarell Quansah, Harvey Elliott, and Caoimhin Kelleher, all showcased immense talent but struggled to find regular playing time at Liverpool.
Among these is James McConnell, a midfielder highly regarded by Arne Slot and viewed as a potential standout for Liverpool’s future.
Despite this, he was loaned to Ajax to develop under Johnny Heitinga, who succeeded Slot after a successful tenure as an assistant coach.
The decision to loan McConnell has raised some eyebrows.
Ajax’s Surprising McConnell Acquisition
Algemeen Dagblad states that Ajax’s scouting team was caught off guard by the club’s move for McConnell this summer, which was advocated by Heitinga.
Scouts have expressed concerns, claiming the signing may hinder the progression of Jorthy Mokio, another promising talent in Ajax’s ranks.
Ultimately, advancing McConnell’s career serves Liverpool far more than it does Ajax, which isn’t effectively nurturing his development.
So far this season, McConnell has logged just 38 minutes in the Eredivisie. His current lack of playtime mirrors the past situation Liverpool faced with Red Bull Salzburg last season.
Time will tell if conditions improve. Heitinga is under pressure after a slow start, and if a new head coach arrives, McConnell may find himself without support.
Liverpool will be monitoring the situation closely.
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