Do Liverpool Already Know Their Trent Alexander-Arnold Replacement? – Opinion | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Alexander-Arnold Dilemma: Conor Bradley the Key to the Future?

Liverpool’s resurgence under Arne Slot has been remarkable, with the team delivering stellar performances week in and week out. Yet, amid the optimism, the futures of three marquee players—Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold—cast a shadow over Anfield. All three stars are out of contract at the end of the season, leaving the Reds at a crossroads.

The Alexander-Arnold Conundrum

Of the trio, Alexander-Arnold’s situation is unique. Widely regarded as one of the best right-backs in the world, his playmaking abilities are unparalleled. Yet, while Salah and Van Dijk are almost irreplaceable in their respective roles, Liverpool may already have a viable successor for Alexander-Arnold in Conor Bradley.

Photo: IMAGO

Alexander-Arnold’s contributions to Liverpool over the past seven years have been immense, particularly in the attacking third. His passing range and creativity have revolutionised the role of a full-back in modern football. However, Bradley’s emergence as a promising understudy offers a safety net should Trent opt for a move away from Merseyside.

Bradley’s Defensive Edge

Statistically, Conor Bradley already outperforms Alexander-Arnold in several defensive metrics. Bradley averages 4.6 tackles and interceptions per 90 minutes, significantly higher than Alexander-Arnold’s 3.1. Moreover, Bradley’s defensive work is notably proactive, with 20.6% of his tackles occurring in the attacking third compared to Trent’s 12.4%.

Bradley also boasts a superior aerial presence, winning 68.4% of his aerial duels, compared to Alexander-Arnold’s 38.3%. These numbers suggest that Bradley could provide Liverpool with a more robust defensive option, particularly in high-press situations.

Photo: IMAGO

Measuring Up in Attack

The key question, however, is whether Bradley can match Alexander-Arnold’s attacking output. While there is a gap, it may not be as wide as many assume. Trent’s expected assists per 90 stand at 0.27, double Bradley’s 0.13. However, in terms of overall goal contributions, the gap narrows. Alexander-Arnold averages 0.35 goals and assists per 90, while Bradley manages a respectable 0.26.

Bradley also demonstrates greater efficiency in possession, with an 80.9% pass completion rate compared to Alexander-Arnold’s 73.6%. However, this statistic must be contextualised—Alexander-Arnold attempts far more ambitious passes per game.

Where Bradley falls short is in attacking dribbles. He averages 3.1 take-ons per 90 minutes but only succeeds 45.2% of the time, compared to Alexander-Arnold’s success rate of 52.3%. This highlights Bradley’s rawness in the attacking phase, something that can improve with experience and coaching.

Photo: IMAGO

Future-Proofing Liverpool’s Right Side

At 21 years old, Bradley has time on his side. Under Arne Slot’s guidance, consistent game time could accelerate his development into a top-tier right-back. Slot’s system, which relies heavily on full-backs contributing to both defence and attack, seems tailor-made for Bradley’s skillset.

However, this doesn’t diminish the importance of retaining Alexander-Arnold. Liverpool’s reliance on his creativity and ability to unlock defences cannot be overstated. Securing his future should remain a priority, but Bradley’s emergence reduces the pressure and provides Liverpool with a viable contingency plan.

Conclusion: A Silver Lining in a Difficult Situation

Liverpool’s contract dilemmas with Salah, Van Dijk, and Alexander-Arnold present distinct challenges. While Salah and Van Dijk’s potential exits would leave gaping holes in the squad, Bradley’s readiness eases the potential blow of losing Alexander-Arnold.

Bradley isn’t yet on the same level as Alexander-Arnold, but the gap is bridgeable with time and development. For now, Liverpool fans can take solace in knowing that the right-back position is one area where the club may already have the solution in-house.