Liverpool winger Bradley Barcola has revealed that the relentless running and high intensity of the Premier League were the biggest surprises following his £125m summer move from Paris Saint-Germain.
The 24-year-old Frenchman, who joined the Reds in a transfer deal that included performance-related bonuses, is adjusting to life in English football as he seeks to establish himself as a regular starter.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Barcola explained that although Ligue 1 is physically demanding, the Premier League places greater emphasis on constant running, with matches moving rapidly from one end of the pitch to the other.
He said: “The big difference between Ligue 1 and the Premier League? L1 is very physical because there are a lot of strong players with impact.
“Here, it’s more physical in the running you have to do.
“Matches go from one goal to the other, it’s less tactical compared to L1.
“You have to run a lot, which is why I had cramps in my first few games, the intensity is very high.”
The French winger is still adapting to Liverpool’s system and is yet to register a goal or an assist in his early appearances for the club.
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Despite his slow start statistically, Barcola remains optimistic about his prospects and views the demands of English football as an opportunity to improve his game.
The former Lyon and PSG player said he welcomed the challenge of moving to the Premier League and hoped to adapt quickly.
He added: “I came here for this, it’s a new challenge. I hope I will manage to adapt well.”
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