Harvey Elliott, a 22-year-old midfielder currently playing for Liverpool, has emerged as a standout performer for the England U21 team. Indeed, he was the star in that crucial 2-1 victory over the Netherlands, scoring both goals to send his country through to the knockout stages. He is preparing to face Germany in the European U21 Championship final. In the meantime, rumors about a potential departure from Liverpool loom over him, particularly with Liverpool reportedly adding Florian Wirtz to the mix recently.
Elliott came to Liverpool from Fulham at 16 years old in 2019. Since then, he became goalkeeper in the Big Five’s six most fun Premier League seasons. His time at the club has seen major personal successes, including his role in building Liverpool’s side of 2023. Now with Wirtz’s arrival, Elliott will have some bigger hurdles to clear in order to earn a customary role with the first team.
His astounding showings throughout the Euros have piqued the curiosity of countless clubs. Reports suggest that Fulham, Brighton & Hove Albion, Crystal Palace, and Bayer Leverkusen are all keeping tabs on the talented midfielder. The option of first-team football elsewhere is something he’s already considering, as he weighs up the future potential of his career path.
“I don’t really want to be wasting years of my career because it’s a short career,” Elliott remarked recently, highlighting his desire to maximize his playing time and impact on the field.
Elliott’s ride hasn’t been entirely smooth. After a significant ankle dislocation in September 2021, which knocked him out for most of the 2021/22 season until February 2022. More recently, he was dealt a further blow when he fractured his foot while training with the U21s in September. As he was celebrating one of his goals against the Netherlands, he slipped and injured his knee.
“I don’t know what I’ve done to my knee, but it’s hurting,” he expressed following the match, showing concern over his physical condition as he approaches the championship final.
Despite these challenges, Elliott has a singular focus on starting strong and competing at a high level. His ability to adapt has been proven time and time again, with the 27-year-old most recently favoured in the No 10 role. His versatility, combined with his cold-blooded performance under pressure, makes him a tantalizing option for quarterback-needy franchises.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot’s decision to bring in Wirtz has raised questions about Elliott’s future with the club. On top of that, he has a contract with Liverpool running until 2027. The intense competition to see the field could cause him to leave for greener pastures.
You don’t know what’s going to happen. I need to reflect. I do. I want to be the best, kickass version of myself. If that’s to go programmatically somewhere else, then that’s a decision I’m going to have to make, as Elliott said himself, highlighting both his dedication to self-improvement and his craft.
As he gets ready for the final against Germany, Elliott’s impact has impressed US national team officials. This was illustrated perfectly by England U21 head coach Lee Carsley, who admitted he didn’t know how important Elliott was until he wasn’t. As the tournament drew to a close, his heart sank.
“It’s a shame there’s only one game left with outstanding U21s,” Carsley stated, reflecting on the team’s journey and their reliance on players like Elliott.
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