Liverpool’s upcoming managerial transition prompts contemplation over squad adjustments for the next season, with one loaned-out player already considering his future elsewhere.
When Liverpool secured the signing of then-teenager Sepp van den Berg in 2019, outbidding notable clubs like Bayern Munich and Ajax, it seemed they had acquired one of Europe’s most promising defensive talents. The Dutch prodigy, then 17, arrived from PEC Zwolle after a solitary season in the Eredivisie, with his initial reaction to Liverpool’s interest oscillating between disbelief and excitement.
Despite making his debut in the Carabao Cup mere months after his arrival and featuring in notable fixtures like the 5-5 draw against Arsenal, van den Berg’s competitive appearances for Liverpool have been scarce in the past four years. A loan spell at Preston North End in the Championship during the 2021/22 season provided valuable game time, but subsequent loans to Schalke and now Mainz have followed.
Currently plying his trade at Mainz, van den Berg’s impressive performances in the Bundesliga underscore his potential, particularly evident in his prowess in aerial duels, ranking among the league’s top performers in this aspect. However, with Liverpool likely to bolster their defensive ranks due to the impending departure of Joël Matip and the emergence of Jarell Quansah, van den Berg’s pathway to regular first-team action appears challenging.
Reflecting on his situation, van den Berg acknowledges the possibility of departing Liverpool if sufficient playing time is not guaranteed upon his return. Expressing his desire for regular game time, he hints at a potential departure this summer, emphasizing the importance of securing a starting role.
While van den Berg is open to continuing his career in Germany or exploring opportunities in other foreign leagues, he remains focused on his current duties with Mainz, aiming to contribute to their Bundesliga survival campaign.
Despite scoring a crucial goal in a recent match against Augsburg, Mainz’s precarious league position adds urgency to their fight for top-flight status, placing van den Berg’s immediate focus on aiding his team’s survival bid.
