Timo Werner has suggested that a move to Liverpool in 2020 might have better suited his playing style than his eventual transfer to Chelsea.
In an interview with The Late Run, the German forward reflected on his career trajectory and the high-profile transfer window that saw him leave RB Leipzig.
Liverpool were heavily linked with the striker throughout the 2019/20 season, with many expecting him to join Jurgen Klopp’s squad. However, the financial uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic led Liverpool to step back from the £50 million deal, as reported by This Is Anfield.
Evaluating the Chelsea move
Werner ultimately signed with Chelsea, where he made 89 appearances and won the Champions League. While he acknowledges the success he enjoyed at Stamford Bridge, he admitted that the tactical requirements of that team did not always align with his natural game.
“I think that was the style how we played at Chelsea,” Werner said on The Late Run. “Maybe it was not like the right style for me, but it was the right style for our team back in the days.”
He suggested that his preference for counter-attacking football would have been a more natural fit at Anfield. “Maybe if I played at Liverpool or a different team, I would have more of that, like these counter situations,” he added.
Reflecting on career choices
Despite the hypothetical scenario regarding Liverpool, Werner maintained that he does not regret his time in London. He emphasized prioritizing team success over individual fit during his tenure at Chelsea.
“Do I regret it? Maybe, but not really,” Werner said. “I mean, winning the Champions League, I had a really, really good time at Chelsea. I made a lot of friends there. How it went in my career, Chelsea was the right choice.”
Following his two-year stint at Chelsea, Werner returned to RB Leipzig and later spent time on loan at Tottenham. He now plays in Major League Soccer for the San Jose Earthquakes, having moved to the United States in January.
Career progression timeline
- 2020: Liverpool opted against a £50 million move for Werner due to pandemic-related financial concerns.
- 2020–2022: Werner played 89 times for Chelsea and won the Champions League.
- 2022: The forward returned to the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig.
- 2024: Werner joined the San Jose Earthquakes in MLS.
Questions regarding the 2020 transfer
Why did Liverpool decide against signing Timo Werner in 2020?
The club opted out of the deal due to the financial uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, a period when Liverpool was also discussing salary waivers.
Did Liverpool sign a replacement for Werner?
Yes, the club moved to sign Diogo Jota from Wolverhampton Wanderers during the same transfer window.