Steven Gerrard’s Pivotal Advice that Shaped Luis Suarez’s Career Path
Liverpool icon Luis Suarez recently disclosed the crucial advice he received from Steven Gerrard during a period when he was heavily pursued by Arsenal. The Uruguayan striker revealed that the Liverpool legend played a key role in him not moving to North London. Gerrard advised Suarez to remain at Anfield for another season, assuring him that bigger clubs like Barcelona or Real Madrid would soon come knocking.
Speaking with YouTuber Davoo Xeneize, Suarez recounted his mindset in 2013, confessing his strong desire to join Arsenal. The Gunners were consistently playing in the prestigious UEFA Champions League, a major draw for Suarez. Arsenal were also prepared to invest significantly to secure his services. However, a move to Arsenal from Liverpool had its complications in the English football landscape.
“In 2013 I wanted to join Arsenal. Because Arsenal played every year in the UCL. They were willing to pay a lot for me… But in England it wouldn’t have looked good to swap Liverpool for Arsenal.”
It was at this juncture that Liverpool’s captain, Steven Gerrard, intervened with advice that would alter Suarez’s trajectory. Gerrard reassured him that patience would be rewarded with even grander opportunities.
Gerrard Felt Suarez Was Destined for a Bigger Stage Than Arsenal
Steven Gerrard’s perspective on the situation became public in 2014 when he spoke to The Daily Telegraph. He openly admitted to advising Luis Suarez against joining Arsenal, believing that the striker’s talent exceeded what Arsenal could offer. Gerrard expressed his relief and happiness when Suarez eventually made the switch to Barcelona.
“Last summer when he was out in the cold and training on his own that’s the conversation I had with him. I said: ‘Don’t go to Arsenal’. I would have been really sad and disappointed to see Luis go to Arsenal. With all due respect to them, I said to him that he was too good for Arsenal. I said if you score 30 goals for us and win the PFA player of the year, the press player of the year – I knew he was going to win them – I told him Real or Barcelona will come for you.”
Arsenal’s pursuit of Suarez became memorable for their infamous bid of £40 million and one pound. This offer was reportedly triggered by a clause in Suarez’s Liverpool contract. While it obligated Liverpool to inform Suarez of bids exceeding £40 million, it did not mandate them to accept such offers. Ultimately, Arsenal’s attempt was unsuccessful, and Suarez remained at Anfield for one more season.
Gerrard’s prediction proved accurate. After a stellar season where Suarez indeed scored over 30 goals and won individual accolades, Barcelona came calling the following summer. Luis Suarez moved to the Catalan giants and went on to have a hugely successful career at the Camp Nou, playing 283 matches and scoring 195 goals. This is compared to his Liverpool stint of 133 games with 82 goals. Gerrard’s counsel seemingly guided Suarez to a destination befitting his world-class abilities.
What do you think about Steven Gerrard’s advice? Was it the right move for Luis Suarez to wait for a Barcelona or Real Madrid offer instead of joining Arsenal? Share your thoughts in the comments below!