Xherdan Shaqiri and Divock Origi were not up to par, Graeme Souness informed Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp in no uncertain terms.
During their tenure at Anfield, the two were essentially backup options, supporting the quartet of Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah, and Roberto Firmino. Origi or Shaqiri would step up when one of them was hurt, although there was frequently a noticeable decline.
Even though they each had their own unique moments, some of which are ingrained in the club’s recent history, their goal returns were consistently above average due to their frequent involvement as substitutes. Still, Souness insisted that neither man was providing much.
Many years ago, he said, “They have nothing up front.” I apologize; Origi and Shaqiri aren’t up to par. Salah [Mohamed] is up there by himself. Mane taking opponents on and Firmino deftly slipping balls in are things we’re used to. Not much, which is what I anticipated from the previous two, is what you’re getting.”
Since then, Klopp has let both players go, and they are both greatly motivated by the urge to play more frequently. Shaqiri left to join Lyon in the summer of 2021, earning a respectable salary to join Ligue 1.
When Origi’s contract ended a year later, he was free to depart and finally moved to AC Milan. Having been a part of the team since Brendan Rodgers’ era, the manager of Liverpool insisted that he would go from Anfield as a true legend.
Upon the announcement of his leaving, Klopp declared, “He will be successful, 100% of the time, wherever he goes.” “He is and always will be a Liverpool legend, and among my all-time greatest players. Considering how many games he had, that would seem unusual, but working together was a true pleasure.
