Former Liverpool centre-back Stephane Henchoz has explained why Xherdan Shaqiri sees his future lying away from Anfield this summer.
The Lowdown: Shaqiri linked with exit
Shaqiri has spent three seasons as a Reds player, making 63 appearances and famously scoring a match-winning double at home to Manchester United back in 2018/19.
It looks as though the 29-year-old’s time on Merseyside is coming to an end, however, with first-team opportunities few and far between.
Lyon are the latest club to be linked with a move for Shaqiri, who James Pearce once hailed for having ‘breathtaking technique’.
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The Latest: Henchoz provides update
Speaking to Blick [via Sport Witness], Henchoz claims it is only natural that Shaqiri wants to move on, given his lack of playing time:
“Shaqiri is an outstanding player, he has shown that many times. At Liverpool, however, the competition is simply too great.
“After this excellent Euro 2020, he would like to be a regular at a club. That is why he has now sent a clear signal to Liverpool with these clear words.”
The Verdict: Best for all parties
It makes sense for everyone that Shaqiri finds a new club this summer, allowing him to be a key man elsewhere and generating transfer funds for Liverpool.
In Harvey Elliott, the Reds look to have a tailor-made younger replacement for the Switzerland international, and his path won’t be blocked by his senior teammate staying put.
Shaqiri has a huge amount of quality and could enjoy success elsewhere, but his time for the Reds has run its course.
In other news, Liverpool could reportedly make a move for a midfielder this summer. Find out who it is here.
