Pennant backs Barcola to settle faster than Wirtz at Liverpool

Bradley Barcola's £123 million transfer to Liverpool has been confirmed, and former Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant says the French winger will adapt to the Premier League quicker than Germany's Florian Wirtz. Pennant made the comments to NetBet Sport, noting that wing play is less brutal than central midfield.

Why Liverpool see Barcola as a fit

Liverpool’s decision to spend a seven‑figure fee on Barcola reflects the club’s belief his style matches the English top flight. Pennant argued that the position on the wing is “a little bit different” and not as physically demanding as central midfield, making the Frenchman a suitable acquisition.

Pennant highlighted Barcola’s quickness and his strength for his size, saying “he’s quick, he’s strong for his size and physique and if you’ve got those attributes in the Premier League, you go a long way.” Those qualities, he added, tailor Barcola’s game towards the Premier League.

“I think everyone who comes to the Prem has to adapt differently to their style. All the football in the European leagues are nowhere as competitive as they are in the Premier League,” Pennant told NetBet Sport. He believes Barcola’s attributes will allow him to settle faster than Wirtz, whose central‑midfield role pits him against “the big boys in the middle of the field.”

Barcola’s first taste of English football came in a friendly against Atletico, where he lasted an hour before cramp forced him off. The brief cameo gave a glimpse of his pace before the physical setback.

Supporters will be keen for further updates from Liverpool manager Xabi Iraola in his press conference this week ahead of the clash with Fulham, hoping the new signing can stay fit and deliver the impact promised by Pennant.