Wijnaldum: We're known in Europe now
Georginio Wijnaldum believes Liverpool's run to the Champions League final last season has re-established the team's position as a force in European football.
Three years after their previous foray into the elite club competition, the Reds enjoyed an exhilarating journey to Kiev filled with memorable nights at home and abroad.
Ultimately, there was disappointment as Real Madrid reclaimed the trophy at Liverpool’s expense but, according to Wijnaldum, the results and performances along the way have shown the rest of the continent how strong Jürgen Klopp’s side can be.
“It was amazing to be part of,” he reflected in an interview with the PFA.
“What I loved the most about the Champions League was the games at home. The atmosphere was different than usual. Anfield comes alive on big European nights. It was wonderful.
“We beat some very good teams. Everyone in Europe knows who we are right now.
“It was just unfortunate how things went in the final against Real Madrid. Things didn’t go our way but we learned a lot from the experiences of last season.”
Liverpool resume their campaign in this season’s Champions League on Wednesday night when they welcome Red Star Belgrade to Anfield for the third fixture of Group C.
A home victory over Paris Saint-Germain was followed by defeat in Naples, making the forthcoming double-header with the Serbian outfit pivotal to their aspirations of another adventure in the knockout stages.
Falling at the final hurdle last term has only increased Wijnaldum’s desire to achieve success.
“I hope to stay here for a long time and help to make the history of this club even bigger,” continued the Netherlands international.
“We’ve qualified for the Champions League two seasons in a row and reached a major final but we want more. Everyone talks about winning something and we have to make sure we take that next step. I hope we can do it. We have the confidence that we can do it.
“You want to be able to look back and feel you were part of Liverpool’s great history – win something here and they will always remember you.
“I want to be remembered as a Liverpool player who was part of something special.”
Hailed for his versatility by Klopp when he joined the club from Newcastle United in 2016, the No.5 has since played in a variety of different midfield roles – and even turned up at centre-back on one occasion.
“It makes it easier for you to play more often and it makes it easier for the manager if he has players who can be used in different positions,” noted Wijnaldum.
“I think I’ve shown I have the defensive discipline to play deep as the No.6 and start the build-ups with my passing. I can also play higher up the pitch and make a difference in the opposition area. Being able to do both has helped me to play so many games.
“I’ve certainly grown as a player during my time here. The expectations are so high at such a big club and that drives you on to become better.
“Before I signed for Liverpool I was playing for Newcastle as a No.10 – basically, I was always attacking, I didn’t have to do much defensive work. I didn’t play as the No.6 or the No.8.
“Learning to play different roles has made me a more all-round midfielder. With the calibre of players here and the technical staff, this is a great environment to learn.
“Walking out at Anfield is an unbelievable experience and I feel very fortunate. I try to enjoy every minute of it. We’ve come a long way as a club and I’ve been happy to contribute to that.”