Liverpool and the Curtis Jones gamble: Why selling a homegrown star was a historic mistake?
Possessing top-tier ball possession statistics in Europe and being the last remaining icon of the 'Scouser' identity, letting Curtis Jones go could be a significant blow to Liverpool, both in terms of performance and prestige.
Under the current regime, Liverpool was once lauded as one of the most efficient transfer clubs in the world. However, the decision to let Curtis Jones leave Anfield at this time could become a dark blemish in the club's history. The 25-year-old midfielder is not only a technically gifted player but also possesses the DNA of the Merseyside club – a value that is gradually diminishing after the departure of icons like Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Outstanding statistics from a top 'regulator'
Despite never playing more than 2,000 minutes in the domestic league in a single season, Curtis Jones has proven to have a profound impact whenever he's on the pitch. In Arne Slot's system, where control is crucial, Jones is the ideal but underutilized piece of the puzzle.
Advanced data indicates that Jones is among the top 10 midfielders in Europe's five major leagues for progressive passing ability. At Liverpool this season, he holds the number one spot on the list of midfielders with the highest average progressive passes per 90 minutes. His ball distribution goes beyond mere safety; he ranks fourth in the Premier League for deep passes into the opponent's half and third for through passes.
In particular, Jones's pass accuracy consistently remains above 90%, even reaching 95% in the Champions League. Without the ball, he transforms into a fiercely pressing 'warrior,' perfectly combining passion and composure – a quality both Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot appreciate.
The paradox in personnel priorities
One noteworthy point is the team's stability when Jones is on the pitch. Between mid-December and mid-January, when Jones started 9 out of 10 games, Liverpool established a 13-match unbeaten streak. The game only changed when the return of other stars caused tactical shifts, pushing him behind players like Wirtz, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, or Gravenberch.
A more striking comparison lies in the case of Alexis Mac Allister. The World Cup winner has played over 3,500 minutes this season but has consistently shown lackluster form. If Liverpool truly need to raise funds for rebuilding, selling a 27-year-old with a high transfer value like Mac Allister to Spain or Italy would be more logical both economically and professionally than letting go of a player who can bring calmness to chaotic matches like Jones.
Identity symbols and the 'Homegrown' challenge.
Following Trent Alexander-Arnold's departure, Curtis Jones was the only remaining 'Scouser' (a native of Liverpool) in the first team at the age of 25. With the squad facing the departure of key players like Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson, Virgil van Dijk, and Alisson Becker, retaining someone who understood the club's culture and identity was paramount.
Besides the psychological factor, the practical issue of personnel is also a barrier. Liverpool currently only has 7 players who meet the 'homegrown' criteria. If they lose Jones, registering new foreign players according to the regulations of the league organizers and UEFA will become extremely difficult.
Overall, Curtis Jones doesn't need a new club to prove his worth. What he needs is the deserved trust from the coaching staff and a contract that truly reflects his stature. Letting Curtis Jones go would not only be a wrong transfer, but also an abandonment of the core values that have built Liverpool's reputation.
