Liverpool’s decision to loan Konstantinos Tsimikas to AS Roma has drawn surprise from former Greece manager Gus Poyet, who admitted he thought the defender was happy at Anfield.
The 29-year-old sealed a season-long loan move late in the summer window after sliding down Arne Slot’s left-back pecking order. New signing Milos Kerkez has been installed as first choice, with Andrew Robertson providing cover, leaving Tsimikas as third choice.
While the move makes sense for minutes, Poyet told Tele Radio Stereo he was shocked to see his former player depart Merseyside — even temporarily.
Poyet on Tsimikas’ Exit
“Yes, Tsimikas’ move to Roma surprised me, because he was very happy at Liverpool, but perhaps the rotation and not playing often had an impact. I imagine Roma will have convinced him, perhaps by speaking with the coach.” — Gus Poyet, via Forza Roma
Poyet added that Tsimikas’ lack of consistent game time was a topic of discussion during Greece camps, even after he signed a new Liverpool contract last year.
Why Roma Appeals
Roma, now led by Gian Piero Gasperini, play a back-three system with wing-backs — a tactical setup Poyet believes suits Tsimikas better than Liverpool’s back four.
“The key issue is how much opportunity Tsimmy has to play on the wing, with the freedom to push forward because he knows he has a defender behind him ready to protect him. I think his characteristics are a good fit for that system.” — Gus Poyet
Tsimikas’ Liverpool Record
| Season (2020–2025) | Apps | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liverpool (all comps) | 93 | 1 | 15 |
source: club records – 6 September 2025
Tsimikas provided important depth behind Robertson but was never able to cement a permanent starting role. His most notable moment remains the winning penalty in the 2022 FA Cup final.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William:
Tsimikas’ move shows the ruthlessness of Arne Slot’s rebuild. With Kerkez signed to be Liverpool’s future left-back and Robertson still dependable, there was no room for sentiment.
Roma could benefit hugely. In a wing-back system, Tsimikas’ energy and delivery from wide areas will shine. For Liverpool, it’s smart squad management, but they risk losing a popular figure who embodied the “squad player” ethos.
Key Insights
- Tsimikas left Liverpool for AS Roma on loan.
- Poyet said the move was a “surprise” as he was “very happy” at Anfield.
- Slot now prefers Kerkez and Robertson at left-back.
- Roma’s back-three system could unlock Tsimikas’ strengths.
- Defender has 93 apps, 1 goal, 15 assists for Liverpool.
What’s Next
Tsimikas will aim to establish himself as Roma’s starting wing-back this season. If he thrives, the Italian club may push to make the deal permanent.
For Liverpool, his departure reduces depth, but with Kerkez bedding in and Robertson returning to fitness, Slot is betting on his top two choices to carry the load in domestic and European competitions.
Was loaning out Tsimikas smart squad planning by Liverpool — or a risky move that could backfire in Europe?
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