It is rare for players to show up and perform well against Manchester City. Even less are they able to do so with a Championship team. Fabio Carvalho, Liverpool’s target, did exactly that.
Fulham’s FA Cup match against the Premier League leaders saw Carvalho shine, and he opened the scoring for the West London side. Even though his team lost 4-1, the 19-year-old Portuguese starlet was a standout in every match.
It sent a message that Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool and Liverpool should not let him slip through their hands in the summer like he did in January. His move to Anfield fell apart at the very last moment.
The clubs reached an agreement that would allow the Portuguese attacker to return to Fulham on loan for rest of the season.
Both clubs failed to sign the necessary papers in time, which prevented the deadline-day deal from happening.
According to reports, they are still in discussions over the youngster. Carvalho appears set to join Liverpool in the summer when his contract expires.
“We are still interested in Carvalho, it would be crazy not to. Klopp stated that Carvalho is not in the club’s hands at the moment. It was too late before the window shut. We will see what happens.
Here are seven stats that Carvalho has shown to be a worthy signing for the Reds.
Fulham won the match with a goal from Carvalho, who scored the first goal in just four minutes. This is the first goal City conceded this season.
– This was the 19-year old’s eighth goal of this season. He has also contributed four assists to that goal, making it 12 goals in 20 appearances.
– He scored four goals and assisted three in the game against Manchester City.
His goal was not the only highlight of his performance. His 83% accuracy in passing at the Etihad was impressive for a youngster who was playing against one of the most talented teams in the country.
– Fulham had only 39% possession. Carvalho, however, showed his playmaking skills and created one opportunity during his 88 minutes of pitch time
Carvalho scored two Fulham shots on target. He also saved Zack Steffen in half-time.
He was fouled twice during the match and used his amazing dribbling skills to win some free kicks for the away team.