08 Jun 2026 12:32:24
Do we really need another CB? Now, I say that as we have signed two of the biggest prospects in Europe as well as some excellent youth. Tor Ndaiye has really impressed and was already on Slots bench. Add in Ndukwe and we have 4 18-20 yr olds chomping at the bit to start next to Virg.
Gomez could stay then walk away with Virg next season. If we sign another older player that would limit game time for the others, and will they themselves be happy with less time.
08 Jun 2026 12:56:35
I think you've highlighted a potential issue next season if both Gomez and VVD were to leave. We can't be in a position to only have CBs under 21. Therefore, I think we need a more senior one this season who can stay until the younger ones are more established.
08 Jun 2026 13:13:16
You're failing to see a major issue here. 18-21 is extraordinarily young to be handed the keys to the defence for a top 5 Premier League team. However, prominent these prospects are, they are just that, prospects with no experience playing at this level, under this pressure or scrutiny.
Virgil was 26 when we signed him, already a seasoned pro. Gomez is as reliable as wet cardboard. Yes, we need proper senior CB.
08 Jun 2026 14:18:32
Nah, I think we need a CB this season (even if Gomez stays) and another one when VVD leaves. We don't know what Leoni will be like after almost 8 months w/o playing, and same applies to Jacquet, as a rookie also coming from a nasty injury. That's just what it is.
08 Jun 2026 14:18:35
Yes, ideally we need one in with a bit of experience. We really can't rely on Joe Gomez.
But, if Real wanted to do a swap of Huijsen for Macca, or if Spurs wanted to swap Vuckovic for Gakpo, I might change my mind on the need for experience.
08 Jun 2026 14:26:22
We need someone to give Virgil a rest and competition. Virgil was shocking last season and a massive part, if not the biggest part of our poor performances.
His positioning on the pitch is getting deeper and deeper as he gets older, and his first thought is to drop as soon as we lose the ball. I've lost count of the amount of goals we've conceded because Virgil is so deep, he's virtually holding hands with the keeper.
It's why we concede so many deflected goals and goals getting bundled in from inside the 6 yard box.
I think we have to move on from the thought that it's Virgil plus another, and open up to the possibility that Virgil can't do it week in week out anymore.
08 Jun 2026 14:28:07
Yup we need another experienced CB alongside Virgil in that group of 4 CBs.
Gomez is the 5th.
The other experienced CB has to be of a level as a person to step up to lead in Virgil's absence either via injury or rotation.
08 Jun 2026 15:13:45
Indeed, Faith.
08 Jun 2026 15:37:55
Huijsen came in as no experience, young, and then moved to Madrid. Kayode came in last year, now linked with us. So many young players came in and have been fantastic.
08 Jun 2026 15:57:45
Yeah, at clubs with no pressure.
No one is saying it is impossible, Keegan, but relying on kids is not a plan.