Key Points:
- Liverpool boss Arne Slot refuses to blame Trent Alexander-Arnold for defensive lapses.
- The right-back has been linked with a move to Real Madrid this month.
- Slot acknowledges defensive issues but defends Alexander-Arnold’s overall contribution.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has once again come to the defense of Trent Alexander-Arnold, brushing aside criticisms of the right-back’s defensive performances during the team’s recent poor run of form.
Alexander-Arnold faced scrutiny after a challenging outing in Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Manchester United last Sunday, which also marked his return to the lineup after Real Madrid reportedly submitted an opening bid for the England international.
While Liverpool’s defensive stability has waned—conceding 20 goals in their last 17 games compared to just five in the first 12—Slot insists the blame cannot be placed on Alexander-Arnold.
“I do see a certain pattern in the goals we concede, but I don’t see that pattern involving Trent,” Slot remarked during his pre-match press conference ahead of Liverpool’s FA Cup clash with Accrington Stanley. “Not at all.”
Slot Highlights Alexander-Arnold’s Contributions
Slot stressed that Alexander-Arnold has largely been a positive force for Liverpool this season.
“Trent has had one difficult game for us, maybe a few that were OK to good. But mainly, he has had great games,” the Dutch coach explained.
The manager also praised the 25-year-old’s impact in Liverpool’s Carabao Cup semi-final against Tottenham on Wednesday, where he came off the bench and delivered a stellar performance.
“I know there is a lot of focus on him at the moment, but I’d also like to highlight how well he did when he came on in the last half-hour against Tottenham,” Slot said. “The reaction of our fans to him during that game pleased me even more.”
During the match, Alexander-Arnold replaced Conor Bradley and nearly scored with a stunning volley that required a desperate clearance off the line from Radu Dragusin.
Real Madrid’s Pursuit
Despite Real Madrid’s interest, Liverpool have reportedly rebuffed their initial offers and are determined to keep Alexander-Arnold at Anfield at least until the end of the season, when his contract is set to expire.
Alexander-Arnold, who has spent his entire career at Liverpool, remains a key figure for the club, and Slot’s continued public backing highlights his importance to the team’s plans, both on and off the pitch.
