Former England, Liverpool and Tottenham defender Neil Ruddock has urged Bradley Barcola to join Liverpool instead of Arsenal if the winger has to choose between the two Premier League clubs.
Arsenal are the reigning Premier League champions and, as early favourites to defend their title, their status could make them an attractive destination for Barcola.
However, Ruddock believes Liverpool’s history and the experience of playing at Anfield should be enough to convince the Frenchman to choose the Reds.
Ruddock backs Liverpool over Arsenal
Speaking exclusively to iGaming.com, Ruddock admitted Arsenal currently have plenty of pulling power following their league title success.
“With Arsenal coming off a league title, their pulling power is huge right now.”
However, he believes Liverpool remain the bigger club and urged Barcola to make the move to Anfield.
“Liverpool is the greatest and most famous football institution in the world. Walking out at a packed Anfield every single week is the ultimate experience in football.
“Get yourself to Liverpool and be adored by the Kop – don’t waste your career going down to Arsenal!”
Ruddock also spoke about his own experiences of playing at Anfield and believes there are few better places for a footballer to play.
“I was fortunate enough to play in front of a full Anfield – there is no finer arena in world football. If you ask nine out of ten professional footballers, their favourite away ground is Anfield.
“Playing there week in, week out is special.”
Barcola has been linked with a move to Liverpool, while Arsenal have also been mentioned as a potential destination for the Paris Saint-Germain winger.
The 23-year-old could therefore have a decision to make if both clubs make an approach for his signature.
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Ruddock wants Gakpo to join Spurs
Ruddock also believes Cody Gakpo should consider leaving Liverpool for Tottenham this summer if a suitable offer arrives.
The former defender believes Gakpo’s technical ability would make him a good fit for Spurs, while a partnership with James Maddison could be particularly interesting.
“If James Maddison drops back to the number 10 role and links up with him, it could mirror that Christian Eriksen and Dele Alli partnership from years ago. Dele flourished because Eriksen was constantly feeding him assists.”
Ruddock admits he would be surprised to see Gakpo leave Liverpool, having previously rated the Netherlands international highly.
However, he believes the forward would fit easily into Tottenham’s style of play.
“But Spurs genuinely need a natural number nine, so while it would surprise me, Tottenham keep buying versatile attackers who aren’t traditional centre-forwards.”
