Since his £52 million arrival from RB Leipzig in 2018, Naby Keita has been a figure of both promise and frustration at Liverpool. Despite contributing to several major victories, including FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and Club World Cup triumphs, as well as the historic 2019 Champions League and 2020 Premier League titles, Keita’s time at Anfield has been marred by injuries and inconsistent performances.
While he notably scored a memorable goal in a 5-0 rout against Manchester United in 2021, Keita’s impact on the pitch has been overshadowed by the significant number of matches he has missed due to various ailments.
Liverpool’s decision to allow Keita to leave on a free transfer last summer marked a stark contrast to the high expectations that accompanied his hefty price tag. Despite his potential, major European clubs showed little interest, leading to his unexpected move to Werder Bremen.
However, Keita’s stint at Bremen has been far from smooth. Limited playing time, coupled with recurring injuries, has hindered his progress. Coach Ole Werner’s public criticism of Keita’s recent performances only adds to his woes.
Reports of Keita’s alleged misconduct off the pitch, including issues with punctuality and attendance at club events, further tarnish his reputation. The latest controversy emerged when Keita reportedly refused to sit on the bench for a Bundesliga match against Bayer Leverkusen, prompting Bremen’s management to consider disciplinary action.
Keita’s fall from grace serves as a cautionary tale of unfulfilled potential and dashed expectations. Once touted as a cornerstone of Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool project, Keita now faces an uncertain future as he struggles to rediscover his form and reputation in the footballing world.
