Arthur Melo has confirmed his departure from Liverpool and wishes to play one more game before saying goodbye
Arthur Melo, a 26-year-old Brazilian midfielder, has confirmed that he will leave Liverpool when his loan spell ends in the summer.
On the final day of the summer transfer window, the former Barcelona player was signed on a season-long loan by Juventus.
On the surface, this appeared to be a desperate move to fill the midfield numbers after an early-season struggle with injuries and performances.
Arthur, it turns out, only played 13 minutes of first-team football for Liverpool this season. He was out for a long time due to an injury, but even when fully recovered and training, he doesn’t stand a chance. Here’s what he had to say about his time at Anfield and more (via Liverpool Echo):
“I see it with fresh eyes next season.” It will be pivotal in my career, and I am working hard. I’m excited to show you this new version of Arthur.
“Hopefully, I’ll have the opportunity to say goodbye in Liverpool by playing something, to say goodbye to my teammates, the technical committee, and the fans, all of whom have been extremely supportive.”
“[Jurgen] Klopp has been fantastic to me since I arrived. Working with Jurgen is an honor for me. He is one of the best coaches in the world; he has always spoken highly of me; he is an incredible person; and the treatment has always been excellent, elegant, and unique.”
Only the most ardent optimist would have predicted that signing Arthur would solve Liverpool’s midfield woes this season. Even if he had been fit the entire season, it’s doubtful he would have had any impact on the team.
The 26-year-old’s playing style and attributes do not suit Jurgen Klopp’s system. He is a slower-paced passer who would suit teams in the Italian league.
The Brazilian will now return to Juventus, where he will be under contract until the summer of 2025 (Transfermarkt). Will the Old Lady keep or sell him this summer? That is entirely up to them.
It must be a relief for Liverpool that the season is coming to an end and a player who has made no impact is set to leave. He was never a convincing signing to begin with, and even the most optimistic Liverpool fan would have been disappointed with this transfer.
In any case, the club must make midfield additions during the upcoming transfer window. Getting two or three of them would be ideal for adding depth and legs to a football team’s most important position.
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