Takumi Minamino: Career Highlights and Future Prospects

The £7.25M Signing That Shocked Liverpool's Squad

Takumi Minamino joined Liverpool in January 2020 for just £7.25 million from Red Bull Salzburg, a fee that looked like a bargain then and proved to be one of the shrewdest pieces of business in recent memory. The transfer was triggered after Minamino terrorised Liverpool's defence in a Champions League group stage match at Anfield in October 2019, where he scored and assisted in a thrilling 4-3 defeat. Liverpool's senior players reportedly begged manager Jurgen Klopp to sign him, so impressed were they by his movement and technical ability.

Liverpool's senior stars begged to sign the forward after being terrorised by his performance against them in the Champions League.

The excitement around the signing was palpable both in the dressing room and among the fanbase. Klopp had secured a versatile attacker who could play across the front three, and at that price, there was little risk. Yet, as with many mid-season arrivals, Minamino faced an uphill battle to break into a settled and world-class attacking line.

A Modest Return of 14 Goals but Three Winners' Medals

Minamino's time at Liverpool yielded 14 goals across all competitions, a modest tally for a forward, but he collected three major trophies: the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup. His contributions often came in cup competitions, where he was a reliable performer. Klopp labelled him a 'manager's dream', praising his attitude and willingness to learn.

• 14 goals for Liverpool in all competitions.
• Premier League winner (2019-20), FA Cup winner (2021-22), League Cup winner (2021-22).
• Labeled a 'manager's dream' by Jurgen Klopp.

Despite the silverware, Minamino never became a regular starter. The trio of Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino, and Sadio Mané were almost untouchable, and the arrival of Diogo Jota in 2020 further limited his opportunities. The COVID-19 pandemic also disrupted his bedding-in period, robbing him of a full pre-season.

From Anfield to Monaco: The Next Chapter

In June 2022, Liverpool sold Minamino to Monaco for £15.5 million, more than doubling their investment. The move gave him a chance to be a regular starter in Ligue 1. At Monaco, he showed flashes of the quality that had attracted Klopp, but consistency proved elusive. Injuries and competition for places meant he never fully established himself.

Internationally, Minamino remains a key figure for Japan. He has contributed to their Asian Cup campaigns and was part of the squad for the 2022 World Cup, where Japan reached the round of 16. His international form suggests he still has the quality to succeed at a high level.

• Sold for £15.5m in 2022, more than double the purchase price.
• At Monaco: inconsistent playing time but occasional standout performances.
• Key player for Japan, with appearances in Asian Cup and World Cup.

As of 2026, Minamino's future remains uncertain. A return to the Premier League or a move to another top European club is possible, but he may also remain at Monaco. His legacy at Liverpool is that of a cult hero whose potential was never fully realized at Anfield.

Key Takeaways

• Minamino's Liverpool career was a statistical success (14 goals, 3 trophies) but a tactical puzzle he couldn't solve.
• His £7.25m fee to £15.5m sale represents a shrewd bit of business for Liverpool.
• He was highly rated by teammates and coaches, but competition for places limited his impact.
• At Monaco, he has struggled for consistency but remains a valuable squad player.
• Internationally, Minamino is a cornerstone for Japan and could still move to another top European club.
• As of 2026, his legacy is that of a cult hero whose potential at Liverpool was never fully realized.