Jarrell Quansah, the 23‑year‑old centre‑back who transferred from Liverpool to Bayer Leverkusen last summer, describes his departure from Anfield as a "no‑brainer". The English defender had risen through Liverpool’s youth system, broke into the first‑team squad and amassed 58 senior appearances before the German club activated his release clause with a £35 million fee.
Seeking regular playing time, Quansah signed a five‑year deal with the Bundesliga side and has already featured in 38 matches this campaign. When asked by Sky Sports News about the factors that tipped the balance in favour of Leverkusen, Quansah highlighted the professionalism and clarity of the German club’s approach. "The management laid out a very detailed plan.
They knew exactly what they had observed in me, the attributes they valued and the potential they believed I could reach. Their vision matched my own ambitions, so the choice became obvious," he explained.
He added that the decision was not a painful one. "I wasn’t torn because my main priority was simply to play. The Bundesliga is a top‑level competition, and Leverkusen offers the chance to compete in the Champions League and in high‑profile domestic fixtures – like the DFB‑Pokal semi‑final against Bayern Munich next week.
Those are the kinds of challenges I wanted," Quansah said. Reflecting on his exit from the Premier League champions, Quansah admitted that sometimes instinct plays a big role. "You can over‑analyse and let too many opinions cloud your judgment.
I gave myself space to think about my situation at Liverpool, what I could have improved and what would be best for my career. When Leverkusen presented their proposal, everything aligned with what I was looking for. From that moment I knew it was the right move," he said. Beyond club matters, Quansah is also focused on his international future.
He told Sky Sports that he intends to "attack" the remaining fixtures with Leverkusen in order to catch the eye of England manager Gareth Southgate and earn a place in the World Cup squad. After missing Thomas Tuchel’s March selection due to a thigh injury – a spot that went to Ben White – Quansah is eager to prove his worth. "Representing your country at a World Cup is a rare honour.
It doesn’t happen often, and to experience it at a young age would be incredible. The tournament is the pinnacle of football, and I want to help England compete for that trophy," he said.
He emphasized that words alone cannot secure a call‑up; performance on the pitch is the only convincing factor. "I can talk about my ambitions all I want, but ultimately it’s about what I deliver on the field.
I’ll give everything in the remaining games for Leverkusen, and if that earns me a place in the squad, I’ll be thrilled. If not, I’ll keep working and improving – that’s just how it is," Quansah concluded. Quansah’s move illustrates a growing trend among young English talents who prioritize regular first‑team football over staying at a high‑profile club where opportunities may be limited. By opting for a club with a clear development pathway and the chance to play in Europe’s elite competition, he hopes to accelerate his growth, raise his profile internationally, and ultimately achieve his dream of wearing the Three Lions on the world stage.
Since arriving in Germany, Quansah has become a mainstay in Leverkusen’s back line, praised for his composure, aerial ability and reading of the game. His performances have helped the club maintain a strong league position and progress in cup competitions.
As the season approaches its climax, both the player and the club are eager to finish on a high note, with the upcoming DFB‑Pokal semi‑final against Bayern Munich offering a marquee platform to showcase his talents. In summary, Quansah’s transfer was driven by a clear, mutually understood plan from Leverkofen, a desire for consistent minutes, and the ambition to compete at the highest levels domestically and internationally. The defender’s straightforward, instinct‑driven choice underscores his commitment to personal development and his determination to earn a place in England’s World Cup roster.