20 Aug 2026 13:23:36
I've got to be honest, out of all the young lads, Koumas has probably impressed me the most.
Nyoni has obviously caught the eye, and it's so refreshing to see a young player come in with that absolute intention to be noticed. But for me, Koumas has that bit of bite about him.
I love the lad's appetite for the game. He can be a little rough around the edges at times, but his movement off the ball, aggression, work rate and confidence have really impressed me. He's got good ability on the ball too and can use both feet.
For me, that's everything you want from a player. He might not be the finished article and some might say he's not quite ready or quite good enough yet, but if you bring that appetite and desire, you're definitely someone I want with me.
He could be a real dark horse to have an impact this season and in the seasons to come. I'd much rather give a lad like that a go because you know you're going to get 110%.
We're always fascinated by new signings, but I genuinely love watching the academy lads and seeing players develop into the first team. That's the heart and soul of the club for me.
Really exciting to see how Koumas continues to develop. I really like the lad.
20 Aug 2026 13:55:56
With you on this, Farmer. I have high hopes for him too, and very curious to see him develop during the season under Iraola-ball.
20 Aug 2026 13:55:58
Oh, hi, Jason!
20 Aug 2026 13:59:26
I expect Koumas to get a loan before the window closes.
20 Aug 2026 14:05:00
I've been saying for years he is the better prospect between him and Jayden Danns. For a start, Koumas' body looks up to the rigors of senior football. He just plays with an aggression and intensity beyond his years. I think he's found wanting technically at times, but he'll be a good versatile squad player this season whilst we await the return of Ekitike.
I can see Koumas coming on late in games to maintain the pressing intensity. It does make Chiesa redundant, though, in my opinion. There's nothing Chiesa offers that Koumas doesn't, without taking up a crucial non-HG slot.
20 Aug 2026 14:22:21
Does anyone else think Koumas reminds them of Lallana? Or is it just me? Maybe just a little quicker, and Lallana had better ball mastery, but every time I see him play, Koumas does remind me of him. I really like the player, though.
And happy Iraola is looking to utilise him. Not surprised by Nyoni's emergence, as I felt he was ready last season, but Koumas was a welcome surprise.
Fingers crossed everything goes well for the young lad.
20 Aug 2026 14:23:42
Danns is technically top class though, MK. He has shades of Harry Kane about him, but, unfortunately, his body doesn't seem to be assisting him. It will be a real shame if he can't get a proper chance to stake his claim. I like Koumas though, and, as you say, he is certainly looking like a better option than Fede at this moment.
20 Aug 2026 14:24:01
I think you're right, MKS. Chiesa was and still is a personal favorite of mine, but I've gotten the feeling that he's outgrown his usefulness to the team. He looked okay under Slot as a backup, but I have my doubts as to how he'll play under a faster, harder Iraola-ball. Plus, that 200k per week wage can be used better elsewhere.
20 Aug 2026 14:50:54
Koumas is 100% more useful than Chiesa. Also, Chiesa is on 150 k a week, which we should look to get rid of.
20 Aug 2026 15:01:35
I've got to say that in the (mainly) highlight reels I see of Koumas, he reminds me of a mix between Lallana, Suarez (obvs not the skill yet, but the bite) and Bellamy. He's also a more polished (even now) version of Delap, who a number of folks were clamouring for us to buy for his set fee last summer.
I'm pleased he's in the first team squad, and I think he could have a good breakout season.
20 Aug 2026 15:10:47
Nyoni to me looked the best in pre-season, no doubt, cool calm and collected, always looked to progress the ball, looked effortless to him, a real natural with a great eye for the game I think. Koumas did very well but in my opinion, showed his inexperience, tried to rush or force things at times and can be a bit unaware of his surroundings, none of which are major concerns and could easily be put down to the fact that the young lad was simply trying so hard to impress.
Looking forward to seeing both of them given opportunities this season.
On a side note, someone mentioned Danns, who I think has already proved he can produce top-quality football. It's a real shame about the injuries. Hopefully he bounces back asap, as I was really looking forward to seeing him develop further; there's great potential there.
20 Aug 2026 15:56:58
Danns is top notch. Such a shame about his body. Watched a lot of these two lads for the academy over the years, back to when Koumas was a midfielder. Both were always top prospects. Talent-wise I'd say they are evenly matched. Both scored some absolutely terrific goals.
20 Aug 2026 17:18:31
The world of football moves fast. Just over 12 months ago, Liverpool fans were excited to see 100 mill plus signings, Isak and Wirtz, in action. Fast forward to now and it's Nyoni and Koumas.
Personally, I think both will be very much bit part players, but hope both take the opportunities when they present themselves.