Pep Lijnders, speaking ahead of Liverpool’s Carabao Cup quarter-final against West Ham, has advised the club’s leadership to seek the best resolution for Fabio Carvalho, should he be recalled from his loan spell at RB Leipzig soon.
The 21-year-old has struggled for playing time in Germany, featuring in just one Bundesliga start midway through the season. Recent reports suggest Liverpool might terminate Carvalho’s season-long loan with Marco Rose’s side.
Expressing his views to the media, Jurgen Klopp’s assistant emphasized the importance of Carvalho finding playing minutes, whether at Anfield or elsewhere, to regain rhythm and confidence.
Lijnders highlighted, “Finding rhythm is crucial. A player’s confidence and performance change significantly based on their rhythm and training routines. While he needs minutes, the decision lies with our directors to discuss and determine the best course for him.”
He added, “We all want the best for him as he is our player. No decision has been finalized yet.”
Recent reports by The Daily Mail suggest that Liverpool is poised to make a conclusive decision on Carvalho this week, potentially recalling him from Leipzig and arranging a new loan move in January.
Carvalho recently featured for Leipzig in a Champions League game against Young Boys, his first full 90-minute match for the German club. However, considering the team’s secured position in the group, the coach made significant changes to the starting lineup.
His involvement in the upcoming match against Werder Bremen could offer clarity on his standing within the Leipzig squad. If he doesn’t play, it might prompt Liverpool to end the loan and reevaluate their plans.
Given Ben Doak’s injury and Mo Salah’s impending absence for the Africa Cup of Nations, Liverpool might consider retaining Carvalho for squad depth in January. However, if Carvalho continues to struggle for opportunities, another loan move seems probable. Lijnders emphasized that, at this stage of his career, regular playing time is essential for the former Fulham player.
