With the image of Fabinho dominating any and every midfield for Liverpool almost seeming like a thing of the past, the similarly all-action Joao Palhinha could be the club’s answer to finding a suitable successor for the declining Brazilian’s throne.
A glimpse at the fall of Fabinho
While the likes of Jordan Henderson and James Milner have looked like they are past their sell-by date, perhaps the most surprisingly underwhelming performer in the middle of the park has been Fabinho.
With Henderson and Milner in their 30s as well, one can sympathise with the pair’s best days being behind them at this point.
However, the same cannot be said for the Brazilian international, who should be at the peak of his powers at 28 years of age.
As recently as last season, the former Monaco lynchpin was considered as one of the best defensive midfielders in the world.
However, an alarming drop-off in Fabinho’s athleticism has been evident this term, with his ability to cover the hard yards and screen the back four seemingly non-existent for Jurgen Klopp’s side.
Especially in the case of any number six, a physical regression is perhaps the biggest warning sign that their time at the top may be coming to an end.
Considering the Reds’ penchant for eyeing cut-price deals in the transfer market, a successor that ticks all the boxes needed to succeed Fabinho may very well be plying his trade in the Premier League.
Enter Palhinha
For anyone that still considers them unfamiliar with what makes Joao Palhinha one of the very best defensive midfielders in the Premier League, his all-conquering display in Fulham’s 2-1 defeat to Manchester United was an insight into why he is a master of his position.
Against United, the Portuguese international made 9 tackles, the most out of any player in a single game in the league this season, as per Squawka via Twitter.
The numbers emphasise the 26-year old’s incredible ability to mop up any signs of danger, as he singlehandedly kept Erik ten Hag’s side at bay for a majority of the contest.
With Andreas Pereira and Tom Cairney pushing further forward, the onus was on Palhinha to snuff out any and every sign of danger and it’s safe to say that he put in a display that would be akin to a vintage N’Golo Kante masterclass.
Even aside from the former Sporting CP anchor’s masterful showing against the Red Devils, he has been borderline flawless defensively, winning the second most duels (32) out of any player in the league so far.
Considering Fabinho’s athleticism has endured a rapid decline, it’s safe to say that Palhinha is more than capable of replacing the engine he provides in the middle of the park.
A peek at the latter’s passing numbers would be skewed in comparison to the former’s, considering Liverpool still remain one of the best sides in the league.
The eye-test remains the best possible barometer of the Primeira Liga winner’s comfortability in possession, and he is nothing short of a metronome.
Palhinha’s ability to pick up the ball in the first phase, while remaining press resistant and ensuring Fulham can transition further forward without breaking a sweat is a sign that his on-the-ball qualities will translate successfully in a top side.
Liverpool should jump at the chance of signing him next summer
With Marco Silva’s side completing his signature for £17.2 million (The Athletic) this summer, it would be a safe assumption to make that the club could let the ex-United target, as reported by the Daily Mail depart for slightly over double the price.
Considering Palhinha’s true value remains double at least of the bargain at which he arrived for at West London, Jurgen Klopp’s side should pounce at the opportunity of signing one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League.
Even if Fabinho recaptures the heights he has hit for Liverpool during the side’s finest years in recent memory, the club’s need for reinforcements in midfield such as Joao Palhinha continue to remain top priority.
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