Everybody knows that Thiago Alcantara of Liverpool is one hell of a classy midfielder.
The Spain international played a massive role in the Reds’ almost winning four trophies under Jurgen Klopp last season.
So if he starts the 2022-23 campaign on the sidelines through injury, of course Liverpool, who have two points from a possible nine in the Premier League, are going to struggle.
And it turns out the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich maestro is just as classy off the field.
That’s because despite being unavailable, Thiago made the visit to Old Trafford last night nevertheless.
Thiago was photographed during the Liverpool encounter as Klopp’s side lost 2-1 at Manchester United.
Here are two photographs of the midfielder
Nobody would’ve batted an eyelid had Thiago – or any of Liverpool’s injured players – stayed on Merseyside, watching Sky Sports’ coverage from the comfort of their sofa.
But the fact that the Spanish wizard attended the contest in person is a reflection of his character and leadership, the like of which Klopp’s troops were missing on the field last night.
It remains to be seen when Thiago will be available for selection again.
On August 12, The Guardian reported that Liverpool might well be without him for up to six weeks due to a hamstring problem.
And that isn’t positive because it means that the Reds could be without one of their most influential players until deep into September.
Klopp’s side are away to Everton on September 3 and then have a difficult visit to Chelsea 15 days later.
Liverpool’s overall fortunes could and probably will change between then and now, but they’re still going to need Thiago for their biggest occasions this season and if he misses both of those encounters then it’s definitely a negative.
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