It has been brewing for just a few weeks now however Stefan Bajcetic really introduced himself on the largest stage for on Monday with a managed and thrilling efficiency on the coronary heart of midfield towards Everton with presumably watching on with jealousy.
The 18-year-old had been on the fringes of 's squad for many of the season earlier than being given his first Premier League begin towards Chelsea. His inclusion within the beginning line-up raised some eyebrows from many with Fabinho, Jordan Henderson, Curtis Jones and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain named on the bench.
However back-to-back defeats towards Brentford and Brighton was seen as a chance by Klopp to shake issues up and Bajcetic impressed along with his capacity to interrupt up play and tranquility on the ball. He struggled - like each different Liverpool participant - within the 3-0 defeat to Wolves, however the match towards Everton noticed Bajcetic immediately turn out to be a fan-favourite.
Enjoying in his first Merseyside derby, some had been sceptical whether or not the younger Spaniard was the fitting decide to play towards a Sean Dyche crew. Jamie Carragher even admitted his suspicions on commentary - however he was quickly made to backtrack on any issues.
Bajcetic flew into tackles and showcased his passing vary to large fanfare from the Liverpool supporters. The teenager was given a standing ovation by the Anfield devoted when he was introduced off by Klopp, who gave the midfielder an enormous hug on the touchline.
Liverpool's apparent want for a rebuild in midfield brings Bajcetic's emergence much more into the highlight. However United might also be trying on in some envy after being pipped by Liverpool to the signing of Bajcetic in early 2021.
The Pink Devils had been linked with the promising midfielder again in 2019, however Bajcetic in the end snubbed a transfer to Outdated Trafford in favour of a change to Anfield. Like Liverpool, United are additionally in want of some new midfield reinforcements this summer time - particularly proper now.
Christian Eriksen, Donny van de Beek and Scott McTominay are out injured whereas Casemiro nonetheless has another league sport he is suspended for after being proven a purple card towards Crystal Palace. United do have their very own younger proficient midfielder in Zidane Iqbal, who was an unused substitute within the latest win over Leeds.
However Erik ten Hag is but to present the 19-year-old an opportunity within the first crew this season, suggesting the teenager is not fairly able to make an influence. Kobbie Mainoo can be being tipped for a vibrant future at United, however the 17-year-old is in an identical boat to Iqbal in making an attempt to interrupt into Ten Hag's first-team plans.
In the meantime, Bajcetic is proving to be the true deal at Liverpool with United left licking their wounds at letting a star expertise slip by way of their fingers.