A number of Liverpool players have returned from loan spells this summer, giving boss Andoni Iraola decisions to make before the new Premier League season begins. Some enjoyed productive campaigns that enhanced their reputations, while others endured frustrating seasons which could not end soon enough. With pre-season underway, several returning loanees will be hoping they can force their way into Iraola’s plans, while others could be set for exits.
Harvey Elliott Handed Fresh Hope
No Liverpool loanee has more to prove than Harvey Elliott. The attacking midfielder’s season at Aston Villa quickly became one to forget after he struggled to convince Unai Emery that he suited his tactical system. Elliott managed just nine Villa appearances, and a permanent move, which depended on appearance-related clauses being met, was ruled out in October.
His fortunes could be about to change, however. Iraola has already suggested Elliott remains part of his plans, praising the 23-year-old’s attitude after returning early for pre-season. The new Liverpool boss insisted Elliott would be given an opportunity to impress, describing his eagerness in training as a positive sign.
Tsimikas Faces Uncertain Future
Kostas Tsimikas also struggled to make the desired impact during his loan spell with Roma. Competition for places and tactical differences meant the Greek international never became a regular under Gian Piero Gasperini. Although he featured across Serie A and the Europa League, many of his appearances came from the bench, and he rarely completed a full 90 minutes. In total, this led to him playing just 637 league minutes and 412 in the Europa League.
His future at Liverpool is now difficult to predict. With Andy Robertson having departed, Tsimikas could either provide experienced cover or become another player the club looks to move on. The 30-year-old has indicated he wishes to stay and battle Milos Kerkez for the number one spot. However, with just one-year left on his contract, the Reds may be more tempted to cash in.
Jaros Setback
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Rapid progression saw Vitezslav Jaros go from representing then-League Two Stockport County in 2022/23, to securing a loan at Ajax for 2025/26. It was initially an excellent loan move with the Czech keeper enjoying regular minutes for the Dutch giants. Unfortunately, this experience was cut short in February when he suffered a serious knee injury that ruled him out of the entire season. He is not expected back until late in 2026, but a loan in the winter transfer market may be a possibility for him.
Mixed Fortunes for Liverpool’s Youngsters
Several of Liverpool’s academy graduates experienced very different loan campaigns.
James McConnell
James McConnell’s move to Ajax did not go as planned. The midfielder found opportunities limited following John Heitinga’s departure and was eventually recalled by Liverpool after making only seven appearances. Another loan move, where minutes are more of a guarantee, could now be the most sensible next step in what will be a big year for the 21-year-old.
Lewis Koumas
Lewis Koumas fared better than McConnell, but not without limitations. The Welshman was initially loaned out to Birmingham, with the expectation he would be a starting XI regular. By late January, he had made 25 appearances, but only nine were starts. Following this, Liverpool terminated the loan and sent him to promotion-winning Hull. It was a similar situation there, with Koumas usually featuring off the bench. Still, it was a worthwhile experience, and he managed to net three goals for the Tigers.
Luke Chambers
Championship action came more frequently for Luke Chambers after securing a loan move to Charlton in the winter transfer window. He made 16 starts for the Addicks, averaging 69 minutes per appearance. Attacking output was rather lacking though, with just one goal involvement to show for the left midfielder.
Luca Stephenson
Meanwhile, Luca Stephenson excelled during his second spell at Dundee United, producing consistent performances and 10 goal contributions. Off the back of his showings across the border, he secured a permanent transfer to Bolton for an undisclosed fee, one reported to be £700k with a 20% sell-on clause.
Injuries Halted Several Loan Spells
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🤝 Isaac joins us on a season-long loan from Premier League Champions Liverpool! #wafc 🔵⚪️ pic.twitter.com/0Y7ra4g747
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Owen Beck looked set for another season in the Championship after signing a season-long deal with Derby Country. Unfortunately, he picked up an injury soon after he arrived. When seeking to return to full fitness in November, he suffered another injury playing for the U21s. Due to his injury woes, his loan was cut short in January, before he was able to make a single appearance for the Rams.
Isaac Mabaya suffered an even crueller setback after damaging his Achilles less than two weeks into his spell at Wigan Athletic. The youngster was stretched off during his first start for the Latics and returned to Liverpool for surgery. Mabaya turns 22 soon and with less than 100 minutes of senior football to his name, the club may seek to offload him.
This is what happened to James Balagizi, who was released this summer. The 22-year-old had been on loan to Forest Green Rovers but was later recalled after suffering a serious hamstring injury. Despite being released, Balagizi showed up for Liverpool U21s pre-season training, so his Liverpool involvement may not be over just yet.