Is there anything David Alaba can’t do?
Not content with being arguably the finest left-back of the modern era, Bayern Munich’s living legend has made adapting to a new position after almost a decade on the flanks look like child’s play.
Alaba, these days, is the best centre-back in the best team European football has to offer.
With his pinpoint positional awareness, searing pace and Pirlo-esque passing range, the casual observer would be forgiven for assuming the nine-time Bundesliga winner had spent his entire career organising everything from his new hub at the heart of Bayern’s back line.
The November international break meant another role for Alaba; a more attacking one, wide on the left of a four-man midfield.
And, would you believe it, he is a natural there too.
No one produced more than his five key passes as Austria finished their UEFA Nations League campaign with a 1-1 draw against Norway, earning promotion to Group A after picking up 13 points from a possible 18.
Alaba’s 90 per cent pass completion rate was also the best of any Austrian player, including RB Leipzig dynamo Marcel Sabitzer and Bayer Leverkusen’s Mr Reliable Julian Baumgartlinger (WhoScored).
The 28-year-old managed more touches than any of his attacking teammates on the night too; and who can blame the rest of Franco Foda’s team from passing the ball to Alaba at every opportunity?
This is a guy who would make Jack Nicholson look one-dimensional.
So, with Liverpool looking to lure another A-lister away from FC Hollywood (90Min), Alaba’s latest stand-out display raises a few intriguing questions.
Where on earth would football’s Swiss Army Knife fit in Jurgen Klopp’s toolchest?
Would he be a commanding, controlling centre-half in Virgil van Dijk’s absence? A rampaging left-back capable of challenging Andy Robertson? Or perhaps even as an orthodox winger in a fearsome front three?
Hell, Alaba could probably do a job in goal if Alisson picks up another knock.
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