In recent months, Timo Werner has been linked with a switch to Liverpool from RB Leipzig, with the German striker having an excellent season. With a reportedly low release clause for a player of world-class ability, it is no surprise that most clubs have been linked with him this season, but various sources seem to lead to Liverpool being the most likely destination. This poses an interesting question in terms of how he would fit into their current system, with the front three areas locked down by Sadio Mané , Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino. In this tactical analysis, Ill look at the playing style of Timo Werner, how he could be used at Liverpool, and the implications of this on Liverpools tactics.
Statistical comparison
To begin this analysis, I’ve compared Werner’s stats to Liverpool’s current forward options, picking out a template based on the skills required to play within Liverpool’s system. We can see in terms of basic output Werner’s goals and assists are the best out of the players compared, with Werner of course in the Bundesliga. Werner excels in dribbling compared to Roberto Firmino, averaging 2.45 dribbles more with a higher percentage accuracy.
In terms of passing and link-up play, Werner competes with Liverpool’s front three well, with his numbers per 90 similar and accuracy similar. Take his final third passes per 90 for example, where he averages 2.26 per 90 with an accuracy of 74%, which is higher than Salah, Mane and Origi. Of course, Werner would not be arriving to replace any of the front three, but we can see from his stats he fits in well. If there’s an area for improvement it would be his through passes, with his accuracy lower with less attempts, but with both Roberto Firmino and Werner within the same system, this weakness may be concealed by Firmino’s clear strength.
Link up play
As we can see from his stats above, Werner is capable of using his passing to link play, and will often drop deeper or wider in order to receive the ball and then progress it. Likewise, if there is no space to play through, and the space instead exists in behind the opposition, Werner is lightning quick and can run onto these kinds of passes.
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