‘FSG show serious lack of ambition’ as Liverpool agree world-record sale
Liverpool Women are at major risk of undoing years’ worth of progress.
The Reds were on a massive decline for a number of years that eventually led to their relegation from the WSL in 2020.
Key changes were soon made, and after two years, Liverpool found themselves back in the top-flight.
However, in the 2024/25 campaign, concerns rose again when Matt Beard left Liverpool, as interim manager Amber Whiteley led the Reds to an eventual seventh-placed finish.
Now, with still no permanent manager in place, the Reds are at risk of losing their best players.
Liverpool agree world-record fee for Olivia Smith
On Thursday, news broke that Liverpool had agreed a world-record fee with Arsenal for Olivia Smith.
The Canadian only moved to Anfield last summer from Sporting CP, but still managed to net nine goals and claim one assist in her first campaign in England.
Now, the 20-year-old is poised to become the game’s first £1 million player, according to BBC Sport (11 July).
| Olivia Smith for Liverpool in the 2024/25 campaign | |
| Appearances | 25 |
| Goals | 9 |
| Assists | 1 |
This news immediately follows the departure of Taylor Hinds, who also joined Arsenal, after her contract expired at Anfield.
Now, there is a real concern about the lack of ambition from Liverpool in a time when they should be looking to challenge for the WSL again.
While many might argue that it is hard to turn down a world record bid, the Reds do not need the money.
On top of this, to sell to a direct rival in the WSL is insulting and will only hinder the Reds’ growth.
Instead, FSG should have been looking to invest in a squad to build around a player like Smith, who is clearly a generational talent.
Now, the Merseyside club will find themselves further behind their rivals, and could soon be looking over their shoulders again if serious investment and direction are not put forward by the Liverpool owners.
FSG has do more for Liverpool Women
As it stands, the way Liverpool Women are run is an embarrassment. The season is set to start in less than two months, but it is currently unknown who will even be on the touchline.
Former Manchester City boss Gareth Taylor has been linked with the Liverpool position, but he is no doubt a controversial figure in the women’s game.
Nevertheless, FSG needs to get his house in order quickly, or the Reds could be in serious trouble this season.
Hopefully, action will now be taken over the coming weeks, and Smith’s transfer fee will be quickly reinvested into the squad.
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