Once a key figure under Jürgen Klopp, the former Reds midfielder is enjoying a late-career resurgence in the Saudi Pro League. Liverpool head into their Premier League clash with Newcastle United under pressure, with form and squad balance both causing concern.
Once a key figure under Jürgen Klopp, the former Reds midfielder is enjoying a late-career resurgence in the Saudi Pro League.
Liverpool head into their Premier League clash with Newcastle United under pressure, with form and squad balance both causing concern. Injuries and a lack of depth in midfield have only highlighted how far the current side is from some of its strongest versions in recent years.
Not long ago, however, Liverpool boasted one of the most reliable midfields in England — and Georginio Wijnaldum was right at the heart of it. Now 35, the Dutchman is quietly producing one of the most productive seasons of his career, far from Anfield but very much in the spotlight.
From Newcastle and Liverpool to a new attacking role
Wijnaldum arrived at Liverpool from Newcastle United in 2016, initially known for his goals from advanced positions. At Anfield, Jürgen Klopp reshaped him into a deeper, high-energy midfielder, where he became a crucial part of the side that won the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League a year later.
After leaving Liverpool for Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, and following a short loan spell at Roma, Wijnaldum made the move to Saudi Arabia in 2023. At Al-Ettifaq, he has been given far more freedom going forward, often playing as a No.10 or even through the middle as a striker.
Why Wijnaldum is outperforming Benzema this season
That attacking responsibility has paid off. In the current Saudi Pro League campaign, Wijnaldum has scored nine goals and provided three assists in just 16 league matches — a return that puts him ahead of several high-profile names.
Karim Benzema has scored eight times for Al-Ittihad, while Darwin Núñez has six goals in 15 appearances for Al-Hilal. Wijnaldum’s numbers underline how effective his role change has been, and he has also taken on the captain’s armband at Al-Ettifaq.
Reflecting on his Liverpool exit in 2021, Wijnaldum admitted he felt undervalued outside the club environment, despite strong relationships internally. Years on, his performances suggest a player who has rediscovered both confidence and purpose — even if it’s come far from the Premier League spotlight.
Category: General Sports
