Minamino says Kagawa helped convince him to join Liverpool

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Takumi Minamino has revealed a chat with former Manchester United star Shinji Kagawa helped convince him to join Liverpool.

The Japan international arrived at Anfield in January in a reported £7.25 million transfer from RB Salzburg (BBC Sport), after the Reds had been tracking him for some time.

Minamino played against Liverpool twice in the Champions League group stages and appear to solidify the club’s interest.

A deal was wrapped up fairly quickly for the player, but not before the player had apparently spoken with his international teammate Kagawa, who played under Jurgen Klopp at Borussia Dortmund, about the German and English football.

He said (Liverpool Echo): “Klopp talked to me about Shinji and Shinji talked about Klopp and from that I could sense that they had a really good relationship.

“Shinji said that Klopp was one of the best coaches in the world and now that I am here and working for him I have also realised he is one of the best coaches around.”

Minamino is currently being eased into life at Liverpool, having made four first-team appearances so far.

TBR’s view – Minamino needs to be patient

Minamino is being used sparingly at the moment by Klopp, but this should come as no surprise to Liverpool fans.

The likes of Andy Robertson and Fabinho, now both crucial players in the team, had to bide their time before becoming regulars, and there’s no reason Minamino can experience a similar journey.

Perhaps when Liverpool wrap up the Premier League title, more chances will be in the offing for the talented 25-year-old.

Once the pressure is off, Klopp will be free to hand opportunities to the fringe players and youngsters, and he can treat it as his true audition for next season.