Liverpool FINALLY replace cult hero with £12.5m star

When Liverpool won the Champions League in 2019, it wasn't just thanks to Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk and the rest of the club's star players.

No, the reason why the Reds were so successful that year was because of the contributions of others in the squad, including those on the fringes.

🔴 Shop the LFC 2025/26 adidas home range

Everyone talks about the impact of Divock Origi, or that Daniel Sturridge winner against Paris Saint Germain but few mention the brilliance of Xherdan Shaqiri, too.

The Swiss international was another who was on the fringes of the squad but who made every moment count that he spent on the pitch during the 2018/19 season.

Shaqiri only played just over 1000 minutes in the Premier League but registered nine goal contributions in those matches.

🔴 Shop the LFC 2025/26 adidas away range

In the Champions League, he played even less minutes, but again when he was on the pitch, he made it count. He provided an assist in both of his two starts in the competition, including one in that famous Barcelona game at Anfield.

Without his contributions, Liverpool would never have been as strong as they are.

And if Liverpool want to be successful again, on all fronts, they will need players like Shaqiri. Cult heroes who will step-up when needed but who are content at staying on the bench and not being a regular starter.

For a long time, this is why the club's quest to win multiple trophies has often fallen short. We've never quite been able to put together the impressive squad boasted by the team between 2018-2020.

But now that could be coming together if both Alexander Isak and Marc Guehi sign for the club and no one else leaves.

Including Federico Chiesa, who might just be the long last replacement for Shaqiri. Just like the Swiss international, Liverpool brought in Chiesa on the cheap.

He just cost £12.5m but he came with an impressive pedigree and lots of experience in the Champions League.

It was an opportunity Liverpool simply had to take, and just like Shaqiri did, Chiesa has taken to his role at the club with enthusiasm.

He's a brilliant squad player, who doesn't sulk and always says the right things.

When he's on the pitch, he makes an impact, too. Just like Shaqiri. The goal against Bournemouth proved that. It means Chiesa has averaged a goal or assist every 95 minutes he has played for Liverpool.

That's the impact you need to make as a squad player. That's why in Chiesa Liverpool have finally replaced Shaqiri.

🔴 Shop the LFC 2025/26 adidas home range

Liverpool agree to sell contract rebel for €55m

Fabrizio Romano CONFIRMS Alexander Isak decision

Real Madrid want to use Florian Wirtz in Rodrygo deal