Liverpool player was 'very happy' at Anfield as transfer exit surprises ex-boss

Kostas Tsimikas' departure from Liverpool has been called "a surprise" by his former international manager.

Tsimikas will spend the campaign on loan at Roma in Serie A after slipping down the left-back hierarchy at Anfield following the arrival of Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth during the summer. The Greece international has spent five years at Liverpool and made 115 appearances, winning the Premier League, the FA Cup - in which he scored the winning penalty against Chelsea in 2022 - and two League Cups.

Tsimikas remains under contract at Anfield for another two years and has long been a popular member of the squad.

And Gus Poyet, who was in charge of the Greece national team between 2022 and 2024, admits he didn't expect to see the 29-year-old depart Liverpool.

"Tsimikas' move to Roma surprised me, because he was very happy at Liverpool, but perhaps the rotation and not playing often had an impact," he said.

"We talked about it in the national team, when I was coaching Greece, as soon as he signed his contract renewal with the Reds (in 2023).

"I imagine Roma will have convinced him, perhaps by speaking with the coach. It would be really interesting to understand how the Giallorossi changed his mind."

Poyet added: "I haven't followed Roma much, but from the information I've gathered, I know they play with three defenders.

"The key issue is how much opportunity Tsimmy has to play on the wing, as a full-back, with the freedom to participate and push forward because he knows he has a defender behind him ready to protect him.

"I think his characteristics are a good fit for that system, more so than a back four."

Speaking after leaving Liverpool for Roma, Tsimikas said: "I’m happy to be here. From the beginning, when I saw that a big club like Roma wanted me, I was very happy. This could be a new chapter for me and my family, so I’m very happy to be here, and I can’t wait to get started.

"I spoke a couple of times on video with the sporting director, who explained to me how special it is to play for this club. For my part, I thank the president, who made my arrival here possible.

"I thank everyone who played a role in the negotiations and allowed me to come here. When a club like this calls you, you don’t have to think twice.

"Everyone tried to convince me to come here, but I myself knew the importance of this club, and I’m very excited to wear this jersey."

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