The 20-year-old French centre-back joined the Reds on 1 July for 60 million pounds on a five-year deal running until June 2031, with the club holding an option for one more year. He has been handed the No. 5 shirt.

Chelsea matched the financial package, but Jacquet chose Anfield after being convinced by Liverpool's long-term sporting project. He has recovered from a shoulder injury suffered earlier in the year and began his first pre-season with the squad several weeks ago.

Liverpool's preparations for the 2026-27 season stepped up this week with the trip to the USA, starting in Chicago. The Reds face Sunderland in their opening pre-season friendly later today at GEODIS Park in Nashville.

Speaking in the Windy City, Jacquet said his early days at the club have gone smoothly. "Really good, everything has gone very well since I arrived here. I've got to know all the facilities really well, the hotel and all the pitches too. They are all excellent in order to help us prepare for the game."

He has also enjoyed meeting his new teammates. "Yeah, so far that has all been going very well. They've given me a very warm welcome. And I'm getting to know them much better with every day."

Training in Chicago has been a slight step up. "A little bit, yes. With the sun, it's very sunny and it beats down and hits you really hard. But it's fine, we have a lot of breaks to take stock."

Asked which players he has spent most time with, Jacquet replied: "That depends… I'm trying to take the time to get to know everyone. But I spend a lot of time talking with Trey [Nyoni] and Leo [Giovanni Leoni], I often chat to Hugo [Ekitike] too of course. But other than these guys, I chat to everyone. A lot with Jeremie [Frimpong] too, who's off his head, by the way!"

The defender has already felt the support of Liverpool fans. "Yes, I've had lots of messages from the fans, and I'd like to thank them for that. It's something that I really do appreciate, as I'd already received quite a few before I even arrived at the club."

Pulling on the famous red shirt means a lot to him. "I think it's a real honour and a great source of pride to wear this red shirt. I've already worn a red shirt before, and here I'm about to wear a second one and so I'm very happy indeed."

Steve Barker in awe of current Stellenbosch squad