Gullit tells Iraola to use Frimpong on wing, rebukes Slot’s sacking

On a damp Anfield evening, Jeremie Frimpong lingered on the bench, his pace barely hinted at by the floodlights. Former Dutch star Ruud Gullit watched, convinced the 25‑year‑old right‑back belongs on the right wing, not at the back, as Andoni Iraola surveys his options.

Frimpong’s arrival and credentials

Frimpong joined Liverpool in the summer of 2025, arriving from Bayer Leverkusen for a fee of £29.5 million. The Dutch international was hailed for his performances in the Bundesliga and in Europe, earning a strong reputation before stepping onto the Anfield turf.

During the 2023/24 season he helped Bayer capture both the Bundesliga title and the DFB‑Pokal under manager Xabi Alonso. He also featured in Bayer’s run to the Europa League final, showcasing his ability as a right wing‑back on the continental stage.

Since his arrival, Frimpong has struggled with injury problems and has not consistently displayed his best form. He has made only five appearances for Liverpool so far this season.

The Reds also said goodbye to Egyptian legend Mo Salah at the end of the season. In the same window they secured French winger Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint‑Germain, a player who prefers operating on the left flank.

Gullit’s tactical plea and criticism of the sacking

Speaking to ComeOn, Gullit argued that “the problem with Jeremie Frimpong is that he is a right winger who Liverpool are playing as a right‑back and that’s not his position”. He added “he’s a right winger, he’s not a right‑back” and said the market is closed, urging Iraola to let the player flourish at Anfield.

Gullit also warned that Liverpool have erred by dismissing Arne Slot, the manager who led the club to the Premier League title in the 2024/25 campaign. He said “a club like Liverpool cannot create this sacking culture, getting rid of a manager a year after he came in and won the Premier League”, adding that signing quality players does not guarantee instant success.

Gullit’s comments suggest that a clearer tactical deployment for Frimpong and greater stability in the managerial seat could be crucial for the Reds to rebuild after Salah’s exit. If Iraola embraces the Dutch legend’s advice, Liverpool may avoid repeating a pattern of short‑term fixes and restore a coherent identity on the pitch.