Rafa Benitez, a former Premier League manager, just accepted a position at Celta Vigo, which puts him back in charge of Spanish football. Gabri Veiga, a 21-year-old player who was reportedly one of Liverpool’s summer additions, was lauded profusely by Benitez in his inaugural speech and called a “great player.”
A move to Anfield has reportedly been strongly linked to Veiga, a talented academy graduate, according to claims from the Spanish newspaper Sport ES. However, Benitez was adamant about keeping the young player at Celta Vigo, at least for the upcoming campaign.
THE COMMITMENT OF BENITEZ TO VEIGA
Benitez said on his debut as Celta Vigo’s manager, “I would be delighted to have him continue with us.” Even as Liverpool have been linked to Veiga, the 63-year-old manager’s dedication to him doesn’t seem to waver.
“We’re discussing a significant player who is an academy product. If he stays with us, it would be fantastic for everyone, and I’ll work to make him as good as I can. I really like him; he’s a tremendous player, and I’m depending on him, he continued.
MIDFIELD RECRUITMENT IN LIVERPOOL SLOWS DOWN
Following the Reds’ signing of Dominik Szoboszlai, speculation over potential midfield moves appears to have subsided. Prior targets including Manu Kone, Khephren Thuram, and Ryan Gravenberch have lost their connections to Anfield.
Veiga transfer rumors have also diminished, presumably as a result of the arrival of Szoboszlai. Romeo Lavia appears to be the most likely choice, though, should Liverpool opt to bring in another midfielder.
ANFIELD: A POSSIBLE GOAL FOR VEIGA?
However, Veiga’s future with Anfield cannot be completely ruled out as long as he plays for Vigo. Veiga, a Spain U21 international, is anticipated to depart his childhood club during the summer transfer window despite Benitez’s optimism. If he leaves, it’s widely believed that the Premier League will be his next stop.
It is unknown whether Benitez’s presence and persistence will convince Veiga to delay a move. It is clear that the former Liverpool manager is working hard to keep hold of his promising young player.