Liverpool cult hero John Arne Riise has weighed in on one Liverpool player’s chances of securing playing time this season.
It has been a summer of change at Anfield with Arne Slot spearheading an overhaul of the squad that claimed the Premier League trophy last season. Eight new arrivals, along with the key departures of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz, has resulted in a new-look Liverpool that included four debuts in their opening league game.
With new players comes new competition, and Riise, who spent seven seasons at Anfield between 2001 and 2008, winning the Champions League and FA Cup, has provided insight into the challenges players face when new talent arrives.
Speaking in a recent interview, former Liverpool left-back predicted a tough season for Andy Robertson, highlighting the competition the 31-year-old now faces following the £40 million arrival of Milos Kerkez.
“I love Andy Robertson. But in football, everything changes over time — new opponents, new teammates to compete with.
The level he’s been at for so many years has been the absolute highest. Last season, I don’t think he performed at his top level — which is normal. It’s hard to stay at that peak for so long. But now, with a new player coming in, there’s pressure on him again and he needs to step up. I think tough competition is good for him.
He knows himself that he didn’t perform his best last season. Now with a new left-back in, he’s got real competition. So I think he’ll step up, but I don’t think he’ll get back to the level he was at a couple of years ago.
I think he’ll struggle for playing time this season — that’s my opinion right now, but hopefully I’m wrong.”
Liverpool’s opening Premier League match against Bournemouth showcased the evolving left-back situation. Kerkez, playing against his former club, started the game and played 60 minutes, with Robertson coming on as a substitute to play the final 31 minutes.
The 21-year-old Hungarian international has expressed admiration for Robertson, describing him as the best left-back in Premier League history. Yet his arrival on Merseyside signals a long-term plan for Liverpool, and Robertson faces the challenge of maintaining his place as he enters the final year of his contract. While earlier rumours linked him to Atlético Madrid, Robertson remains at Anfield, prepared for the competition ahead.
The 31-year-old Scot’s story is of a player that embodies hard work and perseverance. From starting in the Scottish lower leagues with Queen’s Park to becoming one of the world’s best left-backs, his journey has resonated with fans.
Since joining the reigning champions from Hull City in 2017 for £7 million plus add-ons, Robertson has won every major trophy available, including the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup. Known for his relentless energy, defensive tenacity, and attacking contributions, Robertson has become a cornerstone of Liverpool’s modern era,
But he struggled last season with minor injuries and consistent rotation with Kostas Tsmikas, and was limited to playing time under head coach Arne Slot.
The competition with Kerkez may serve as motivation, pushing Robertson to adapt and maintain his influence. Even as a substitute, he can provide crucial experience and leadership on the pitch, a fact demonstrated in Liverpool’s opening win against Bournemouth.
Robertson remains a Liverpool legend, and his leadership, consistency, and achievements ensure his place in Anfield history. The season ahead will test him, but his experience and character suggest he can continue to play a key role for the Reds.
