This time last year, Fabinho was struggling to get into the Liverpool first XI and there were major concerns about his success at the club.
But the Brazilian has most certainly turned things around and right now he is one of the best defensive midfielders in the game.
Fabinho is easily one of the first names on Jurgen Klopp’s teamsheets and he is one of the main reasons why despite Joel Matip being out with an injury, the Liverpool defence has still not been stretched.
And now former Liverpool man Xavi Alonso has explained what makes Fabinho so special and why the Brazilian is always one step ahead of his opponents.
“He is connected to the game, always. His anticipation is his greatest asset,” Alonso told The Athletic.
“Sometimes you only have to take one or two steps to change the movements of your teammates and that can determine the whole outcome of the game without anyone really realising because spectators tend to follow the ball rather than the player.
“He’s not reacting one second later, he’s anticipating what is going to happen one second before.”
Henderson, Wijnaldum and Fabinho 😍
Is there a better midfield in world football right now? 🧐pic.twitter.com/55ylXrwSst
— Goal (@goal) November 13, 2019
Verdict:
While the likes of Mo Salah and Sadio Mane have been churning out the goals at Liverpool, its Fabinho who has brought in the much-needed stability to the side this season.
Last season, Liverpool looked a tad bit shaky especially when playing the so-called big matches.
But this time around, they look absolutely at ease and even against Manchester City, Liverpool showed that they can turn defence into attack and this primarily because of Fabinho and the screen he provides to Van Dijk and co.
