Recent reports suggest that Belgium international Divock Origi will exit Liverpool on a free transfer this summer, with AC Milan his likely destination. At first glance, the deal suits both parties. Origi been a loyal servant to the Anfield club, but first-team opportunities have been few and far between. Meanwhile, Milan needs reinforcements up front with Olivier Giroud and Zlatan Ibrahimović both in the twilight of their careers. But Serie A is not a league that suits every player. So, can Origi flourish among Italy's elite?
Golden opportunity
If Origi makes the move to San Siro, first team places will not be guaranteed. Rafael Leão has established himself as the club's main striker, aged just 22, while Ante Rebić is a regular in the second striker role. Serbian marksman Marko Lazetić joined in January but is still only 18 years of age and has yet to make his league debut. Zlatan Ibrahimovic hopes to sign a 12-month contract extension, but injuries and fitness levels could limit his chances, while Giroud is entering his final year at the club and turns 36 in September. With the latter two expected to feature less next season, Origi could plug that gap. His finishing skills and strong hold up play could make him a better option as a partner for Leão.You might not back Origi to be Serie A top scorer with the likes of Ciro Immobile still scoring for fun at Lazio, but you might wager a risk free bet on him topping Milan's scoring charts. Immobile has already netted 29 times this season is currently 1/2 favourite to win his fourth Capocannoniere award ahead of Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic. Milan's own quest to find a 20-goal a season striker has proved fruitless, so a different approach is needed. Origi could be the answer.
Responsibility
The biggest problem is whether Origi can overcome the mental challenge of being a first-team regular. At Liverpool, he carved out a niche as a super-sub capable of turning a game, but without the responsibilities of being the main striker. This move would take him out of his comfort zone. Origi's stats for the 2021/22 season show he has scored one Premier League goal for every 36 minutes he has played. And he has scored one goal every 116 minutes played in all competitions. Because he features so rarely, it is difficult to know how he would perform as a regular starter over the long term, at a new club and in a new league. During his spell at Wolfsburg, he netted six league goals in 22 starts, equating to a goal every 393 minutes. But he was just 21 years old at the time. Now aged 26, he is entering his prime and has five major trophies to his name. That's why Milan are willing to take a chance if they can agree terms with the player.Legendary status
Whatever happens, Divock Origi has sealed his place in Liverpool folklore. As well as making his mark on the field of play, he has also made an impact away from the stadium, setting up an undergraduate scholarship scheme to support students in the local community.But it's his goals for which he will be best remembered. Many of his goals came at crucial times, including the second in the 2019 Champions League final, and the crucial fourth in the semi-final against Barcelona the same year. His last-gasp winner at home to Everton in 2018 will also be talked about for years to come. If he can bring some of that magic to Milan and help guide them to silverware, he could achieve legendary status at a second club.
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