- Liverpool’s manager Slot has lauded England star Trent Arnold despite an uncertain future at Anfield
- Slot emphasised that Alexander-Arnold’s willingness to improve defensively has been a turning point in their discussion
- With his contract expiring this summer, Alexander-Arnold’s future remains uncertain amid links to Real Madrid
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has revealed the high standards he set for Trent Alexander-Arnold at the start of the season, focusing on refining his defensive skills.
Speaking in an exclusive interview recently, Slot expressed his satisfaction with Alexander-Arnold’s progression, emphasising the wing-back’s improved consistency and commitment.
Slot, who took over from Jurgen Klopp during the summer, has guided Liverpool to the top of the Premier League. One of his key adjustments has been working closely with Alexander-Arnold to elevate both his defensive and offensive contributions. Renowned for his exceptional passing ability and pinpoint crosses, the 26-year-old has faced criticism for his defensive shortcomings, sparking debates about his ideal position on the pitch.
During Euro 2024, former England manager Gareth Southgate experimented with Alexander-Arnold in central midfield, only to drop him for the rest of the tournament.
However, Slot was unequivocal about his role, labelling him the best right-back in the world.
“Trent is the best player in the world when he is down the line. His crosses are incredible, he is good centrally, we saw this with the England team, but he’s special on the side,” Slot told TNT Sports.
Slot stated Alexander-Arnold’s willingness to work on his defensive game, an area that has been a focal point of their discussion and training,
“When we started to work together, I emphasised a bit on his defensive work. He had to keep producing assists, but if we wanted to concede fewer shots, he had to improve in defending,” Slot added.
The manager admitted that while Alexander-Arnold occasionally showed lapses in effort, such as during Liverpool’s game against Manchester United, he has consistently shown he can excel when fully focused.
Slot also pointed out that Alexander-Arnold’s longevity at Liverpool sometimes led to complacency, which they have worked to address.
Alexander-Arnold, whose contract expires in the summer, has been linked with a move to Real Madrid. Yet, under Slot’s guidance, the full-back has become a pivotal player in Liverpool’s resurgence.
As Liverpool aims to maintain their position at the top of the Premier League, Alexander-Arnold’s transformation serves is proof to Slot’s managerial impact and technical brilliance.
Slot shrugs off Alexander-Arnold’s Real Madrid links after United draw
Previously, TheRadar reported that Liverpool manager Arne Slot dismissed suggestions that transfer speculation played a role in Trent Alexander-Arnold’s underwhelming performance during Liverpool’s 2-2 draw against Manchester United at Anfield.
Alexander-Arnold, in the final six months of his contract, struggled defensively and was partially responsible for United’s opening goal, leaving questions about his focus amidst swirling transfer rumours.
