Bayer Leverkusen star Nathan Tella has praised former teammate Jeremie Frimpong after his controversial move to Liverpool, which expresses strong confidence that the versatile right-wing will flourish in the Premier League.
Nederlands International sealed a move of € 35 million (£ 29.5 million) to the ruling English champions with a five-year contract and is generally seen as the choice of Arne Slot to follow Trent Alexander-Arnold in the team.
During his four years in Bayarena, Frimpong was an essential part of the team of Die Werkelf, a key role in their first Bundesliga title win in the 2023/24 and 53 performances season to make in all competitions because they ended the second last term.
In addition to his sincere praise, the Nigeria International also emphasized the versatility of Frimpong and the proven ability on the largest phases, the qualities that he thinks will help him to adapt smoothly to Premier League Football.
“Jeremie (Frimpong) had many excellent seasons at Leverkusen, and it was no surprise that a team was as big as Liverpool interested in him,” Tella told Flashscore.com in an interview without bumps.
“He is one of those football players who earns the world because he has done so much for the team (Bayer Leverkusen) to help us, and he has done as much for himself as a player.
“If you are good enough, you can play somewhere, and he has shown that it is not alone that he only plays in Germany, he has played international level, he played Champions League and he did well.
“I would not say that there will be a surprise for someone to see how good he is. Certainly, there should be no surprise to see how well he is going.”
Liverpool has been following Frimpong for more than ten years, but instead he joined the Manchester City youth system. After spells at Celtic and Leverkusen, his time in England qualifies him as a valuable homegrown player under Premier League rules.
Although many expect the Dutchman to replace Alexander-Arnold right-back, Slot reportedly regards him as more than just a defender and is planning to use him as cover for Mohamed Salah during the African Cup of Nations in Morocco later this year.
Tella about future plans in the middle of England Return Talk
The Super Eagle has also openly discussed its future with the Bundesliga club in the midst of rising speculation about a potential return to the Premier League.
Before he signed a five -year -old deal with Leverkusen in 2023, Tella played for English clubs Southampton and Burnley.
Thanks to its impressive versions in Germany, rumors about a potential return to England have emerged, but the Nigerian remains are aimed at his current club and his goals for the coming season.
Tella continued: “I am still happy to be here (at Bayer Leverkusen). I want to stay there. This is the club they have signed and it is an honor for them to sign me.
“When I first heard that they wanted to sign me, I couldn't believe it because I played in the second division and had a team of that status to even show interest in me, was incredible.
“But the fact that I could sign there, had the opportunity to play for them, to win trophies there, I still have the feeling that I have more. So I am really looking forward to my future there.”
Tella has consistently impressed by Bayer Leverkusen, which demonstrates his skills and versatility. In fact, his creativity and work ethics have established him as an essential figure for the Bundesliga club.
When he wonders whether he feels undervalued, the former Arsenal Youth Star does not remain surprised and chooses to concentrate on his contributions and personal growth.
“No, I don't feel hyped. I don't feel tricky. It doesn't really make me feel,” Tella added.
“I am part of a great team and I can play a role in it, whether it is the best, the majority, or whether it is the most mediocre part.
“As a team we could all lift the trophy, we could all get the medal, we could all be part of something big.
“Even if I played a small role in it, I can still say that I am an invincible, I won the Bundesliga, I won the Pokal in my first season.
“Whether my role is big or small, I will always cherish the medals and trophies. I am happy to contribute how the team needs me, I have always been like that.”