Introduction: Liverpool is struggling to fill the shoes of Trent Alexander-Arnold
According to recent performances, they have put under the spotlight what has become one of the major issues—one cannot just yet replace Trent Alexander-Arnold. An Englishman has been at the center of Liverpool for so many years, put in a position of right-back where creativity would flow through him and where he would have control. The Reds appear to have lost their balance both on defense and offense while Trent is out injured.
A Clubhouse of His Own
Alexander-Arnold is no run-of-the-mill defender. Of his passing range, and his vision to set the pace for his team is probably the most important element in Liverpool’s system. Klopp really took this modern full-back to another level, one in which he would frequently drift into midfield and create chances and manage possession.
The build-up on the right side is slow and clumsy without him. Surely, the right side misses Trent’s jolt of energy, long-distance passing, and overlapping runs. Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez have attempted to fill in these gigantic shoes, but it is nearly impossible to even come close to the impact made by Alexander-Arnold.
Continuing Midfield and Tactical Problems of Liverpool
Gone on the Hill with Trap, and now Clash seems to have disturbed that defending and attacking balance in the absence of Trent. The midfielders usually drop a little deeper to help the defense, thus limiting attacking options.
Opponents have not wasted this chance. Now it is all crosses and direct plays in place of what used to be Trent’s creativity, an undeserving fate for Liverpool. It is uncertain what the Reds are missing today;their pressure and conversion into goals used to look simple.
Long-Term Backup Searching
Liverpool knows their way is indeed a different one. The scouting department has been on the lookout for players with similar qualities, but very few are on the technical level he is at. Whatever happens, Trent’s return itself becomes a means of an opportunity for the club to think of backup preparation or slowly move him into midfield.
Developing players along these lines with the Conor Bradley types could very well be the answer, but it will take time. There really isn’t a player who can immediately step into Trent’s shoes.
Author’s Opinion
This dip in the Reds’ form and its continuation stands in testimony of how much of an impact Trent Alexander-Arnold really has. He is not just a defender; he is the primary creative force of the team. Without him, the Reds look less threatening and are a bit predictable. Replacing him will be a tall order, and in the meantime, Slot must look to how to reshape the system, both for the short and long term. Meanwhile, one can only hope for a quick recovery for the star full-back, with his arrival signaling the return of that lost balance and creativity for the team.
As featured on Walkon.com
