Frimpong opts for familiar number, Wirtz benefits from Luis Díaz's departure

Liverpool has announced its squad numbers for the upcoming season. New signings Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong have made their choices.

SoccerDino, Website Writer
Published: 11:28, 1 Aug 2025

Liverpool have officially unveiled their squad numbers for the 2025/26 season, offering fans a first glimpse into how the new signings are settling in and which legendary shirts are being passed down to the next generation.

Among the most talked-about changes are the number selections made by newcomers Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong, both of whom arrive from Bayer Leverkusen and bring not only exceptional talent but also strong personal identities shaped by their journeys so far.

Jeremie Frimpong has opted for his familiar number 30, a choice that may seem modest but carries deep personal meaning. It’s the same number he wore during his time at both Celtic and Leverkusen, a period in which he transitioned from promising youngster to one of the most explosive and effective wing-backs in Europe. The number 30 has been with him through his formative years, and keeping it at Liverpool is a sign of continuity, perhaps even superstition, as he enters the most competitive league in the world. While Liverpool’s full-back roles have long been defined by the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson, Frimpong’s arrival introduces a new dynamic. His attacking instincts, blistering speed, and tactical intelligence could reshape Klopp’s approach to width and transition play.

Florian Wirtz, on the other hand, made a more symbolic and high-profile move with his shirt number. During his impressive rise at Bayer Leverkusen, he wore the numbers 27 and later 10, both traditionally associated with creativity and flair. At Liverpool, however, he will wear the iconic number 7 a shirt previously held by Luis Díaz, who recently departed the club. The number 7 at Liverpool is more than just a digit; it’s a legacy. It evokes memories of greats like Kenny Dalglish, Kevin Keegan, Steve McManaman, and Luis Suárez. For Wirtz to step into that shirt is a bold statement of ambition and responsibility. It reflects how highly the club regards him and how confident he is in his ability to deliver at the very highest level. Known for his vision, intelligence, and ability to dictate tempo in the final third, Wirtz is expected to become a central figure in Klopp’s plans moving forward. Choosing number 7 places him not only in the middle of the pitch but also in the heart of Liverpool’s footballing tradition.

Another number with recent history being revived is the number 6, now taken by Milos Kerkez, the promising Hungarian left-back formerly with AZ Alkmaar and Lazio. That shirt had remained unused since the departure of Thiago Alcântara, a player beloved for his elegance, control, and experience. Though Kerkez plays in a very different position and style, the decision to wear number 6 may mark a new chapter in how that shirt is interpreted less about midfield artistry and more about youthful energy and tenacity down the flank. Kerkez brings a modern, aggressive approach to the left-back role and will likely serve both as competition and complement to the ever-reliable Andy Robertson.

French striker Hugo Ekitiké, also part of Liverpool’s summer reinforcements, has been assigned number 22. After a mixed spell at Paris Saint-Germain, this move represents something of a reset for Ekitiké. At Liverpool, he will have the opportunity to grow without overwhelming pressure, and the number 22 provides him with a clean slate. Ekitiké's blend of physical presence, pace, and instinct around the box gives Klopp a new tool in attack especially valuable in a season where rotation and depth will be crucial across multiple competitions.

The core of Liverpool’s squad remains stable, with established players sticking to their trusted numbers. Virgil van Dijk continues as number 4, the shirt he has made synonymous with composure, leadership, and defensive excellence. Cody Gakpo holds onto number 18, a shirt that has seen him grow into a reliable, versatile forward since his arrival from PSV Eindhoven. Ryan Gravenberch, still carving out his role in the squad, keeps number 38, signalling continuity and the club’s ongoing belief in his long-term development.

Together, these number choices paint a picture of a Liverpool side in transition but not in crisis. The departure of figures like Thiago and Luis Díaz marks the end of one era, while the arrival of stars like Wirtz and Frimpong signals the beginning of a new one. The numbers chosen whether historic, familiar, or understated offer insight into how each player sees themselves within this evolving project. They hint at personality, ambition, and sometimes superstition, but above all, they help define identity within a team whose shirt carries global significance.

As Liverpool prepare to embark on another campaign under Jürgen Klopp, there’s a sense of both renewal and responsibility. With young talents taking on iconic numbers and fresh faces stepping into important roles, fans have plenty to look forward to. The squad is being reshaped not through revolution, but through smart evolution something reflected as much in the numbers on the backs of shirts as in the tactics drawn up on the training ground.

Updated: 11:28, 1 Aug 2025