Liverpool’s difficult week ended in further disappointment at Stamford Bridge, as Chelsea snatched a late 2-1 win to hand the Reds their third straight defeat. But it wasn’t just the result that caught attention. Pundit Gary Neville aimed stinging criticism at £40m summer signing Milos Kerkez, questioning whether the left-back is ready for Premier League intensity.
Speaking on the Gary Neville Podcast, he described Kerkez as looking “like a youth team player,” arguing that the Hungarian international appeared naïve and out of his depth in the clash with Chelsea.
Kerkez, signed from Bournemouth for a significant fee, was supposed to provide competition and quality at left-back. Instead, his adaptation has been rocky, with defensive lapses and shaky positioning drawing criticism from fans and analysts alike. For Neville, it is a situation Liverpool must address if they are to stabilise under Arne Slot.
Neville questions Kerkez’s readiness
Kerkez’s display against Chelsea typified his rocky start at Anfield. He struggled against the pace and trickery of Chelsea’s wide players, while appearing tentative in one-on-one duels. Neville didn’t hold back in his assessment:
“The boy, Kerkez, to be honest at this moment in time… He looks like a youth team player. He looks so naïve, looks like a baby out there.” — Gary Neville, Gary Neville Podcast
Though harsh, Neville’s comments echo concerns that Kerkez has not yet found his rhythm in a Liverpool shirt. Adjusting to both the club’s expectations and Slot’s high-pressing system is proving a steep learning curve.
Slot still searching for balance
Arne Slot has rotated heavily between his full-backs, with Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong rarely starting together due to their attacking instincts. The manager acknowledged after the Chelsea defeat that his system leaves room for opposition breakthroughs, highlighting the challenges of pressing high against elite teams.
Liverpool’s struggles are not just about individuals but about structure. The Reds have shown flashes of attacking fluidity but lack consistency in both boxes. Kerkez has become a symbol of that imbalance — caught between defensive duty and the license to attack.
Milos Kerkez 2025/26 stats
| Stat (2025/26) | Milos Kerkez |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 7 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Total duels won per game | 4.1 (60%) |
source: sofascore match data – 4 October 2025
The numbers remain underwhelming, with Kerkez yet to register a goal contribution and struggling to impose himself defensively. Liverpool will hope the international break allows him to reset and regain confidence.
Analyst verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William argues that patience is needed. “Kerkez is 21 and adjusting to one of the most demanding tactical systems in Europe. Neville’s comments may sting, but Liverpool signed him for long-term development. Slot’s challenge is managing his confidence while shoring up the defence.”
He added: “Right now, Liverpool’s struggles are collective. The full-backs look exposed because the team isn’t controlling midfield as well as in previous years. Fixing the structure will help Kerkez as much as individual form.”
Key insights
- Gary Neville slammed Milos Kerkez, calling him “naïve” and “like a baby.”
- Kerkez joined Liverpool from Bournemouth for £40m in the summer.
- Liverpool have now lost three straight matches (Palace, Galatasaray, Chelsea).
- Slot is rotating his full-backs to balance attack and defence.
- The international break could help Kerkez reset and adapt.
What’s next for Liverpool and Kerkez?
Liverpool head into the international break wounded, with three defeats in a row raising questions about both form and fitness. For Kerkez, time with Hungary could offer a reset and much-needed confidence before returning to Premier League action.
Arne Slot will be desperate to find balance and stability when the league resumes. If Kerkez can settle quickly, he may yet justify his price tag — but if his struggles continue, pressure will mount on both player and manager.
👉 Do you think Neville is right about Kerkez — or should Liverpool fans show more patience with the £40m full-back?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 5 Oct 2025 11:11
He's still young, he was great last season and one of the best left-backs in the league, but maybe playing for Liverpool is another pressure than playing for Bournemouth and that could be the reason why he isn't performing well.
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