Pundit Chris Sutton asserts that Fabinho, a midfielder for Liverpool, is currently experiencing significant athletic difficulties.
The former Blackburn and Chelsea attacker said on an episode of BBC 5 Live Sport’s Monday Night Club that the 29-year-old is a shell of his former self.
“He really looks sҺot to pieces,” remarked Sutton.
He appears to be unable to run any more.
A month ago, manager Jürgen Klopp conceded that the Brazilian was performing below his customary high standards, but he was beginning to show signs of returning to form.
Sutton states that Fabinho appears to be over his prime.
Among the regular starters for Liverpool, Fabinho is among the players whose performance has declined the most this season.
The Brazil international has made 208 appearances for the Reds since arriving at Anfield in 2018 for £39m, including 47 in the Champions League.
During the most successful years of Jürgen Klopp’s tenure, the midfielder played a significant role in the German’s side, adding a powerful presence in front of the defense.
But, over the past season or two, Fabinho’s athletic performance has deteriorated. He is far slower than he once was, and he does not win nearly as many challenges in the middle of the park as he once did.
After years of playing multiple times per week for Liverpool, the 29-year-old is likely physically exhausted.
It remains to be seen whether he has the capacity to return to his prior level, but the club is expected to add competition for him this summer.