Liverpool Have Already Lined Up Their Trent Alexander-Arnold Replacement – Analysis | OneFootball

Conor Bradley: The Heir Apparent to Liverpool’s Right-Back Throne?

Liverpool fans have long known that the day might come when Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future at Anfield would be up for discussion. The homegrown hero, an indispensable part of Liverpool’s attacking DNA, has seen speculation swirl over a potential move to Real Madrid as his contract enters its final months.

However, rather than panic, there is a growing sense of optimism. Why? Because Conor Bradley has emerged as more than just a promising prospect—he’s proving himself as a genuine successor, as revealed by BBC Sport.

Bradley’s Rise Through the Ranks

From Gaelic football fields in Northern Ireland to the bright lights of Anfield, Bradley’s story is one of resilience and rapid development. His first steps in football were in County Tyrone, where his talent was quickly recognised. Even at eight years old, coaches described him as “the best I’ve ever seen”—a sign of what was to come.

Photo: IMAGO

His path to Liverpool began in 2019 when he officially joined the club’s youth academy, though he had already been part of their Northern Ireland development system for years. Initially playing as a forward, Bradley possessed exceptional vision and distribution, traits that would later shape his role as a modern full-back.

Learning the Hard Way in League One

A key chapter in Bradley’s evolution came with his loan move to Bolton Wanderers in the 2022-23 season. Playing in League One, where the physicality is relentless, was a defining experience.

“It was an unreal season, it was everything I wished for and more,” Bradley admitted. “To play that many games, that is what I wanted to go and do. It toughened me up a bit and it was vital for me.”

He thrived in Bolton’s system, making 53 appearances across all competitions and sweeping the club’s end-of-season awards—including Player of the Season. Such accolades caught the eye of then-Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp, who decided against signing another right-back, instead placing his trust in Bradley.

A Standout Performance Against Real Madrid

Bradley’s defining moment in a Liverpool shirt so far came in November, in the cauldron of the Bernabéu against Real Madrid. Thrown into one of the biggest matches of his career, he did not flinch.

His defensive discipline, composure on the ball, and ability to handle world-class opposition reaffirmed his readiness to step up. Former Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler was particularly impressed:

“He was absolutely magnificent,” Fowler said. “Anyone who went over his side, he defended unbelievably.”

This was the type of performance that makes Liverpool’s decision-makers believe they have their future right-back already in the squad.

Photo: IMAGO

How Bradley and Alexander-Arnold Compare

While Alexander-Arnold’s ability on the ball and playmaking from deep are among the best in world football, Bradley offers something different.

Defensive Metrics (Per 90 Minutes Since 2023-24)

Bradley is a stronger defender in terms of tackles and duels, which suggests he could offer more defensive security in certain fixtures.

Attacking Metrics (Per 90 Minutes Since 2023-24)

Bradley may not yet match Alexander-Arnold’s playmaking ability, but he is technically sound and improving. His passing accuracy suggests he can offer ball retention and composure, while his dribbling hints at a player capable of growing into a more attack-minded full-back.

Photo: IMAGO

The Future of Liverpool’s Right-Back Role

With Alexander-Arnold’s future still undecided, the pressure is mounting on Liverpool to find a solution. If Real Madrid do make a serious approach, the club will need to either convince Alexander-Arnold to stay or fully commit to Bradley as his successor.

Bradley has already won over Klopp, and he’s making a strong impression on Arne Slot, Liverpool’s new manager. His performances have consistently been at a level that suggests he is ready to be a starter in a side challenging for major honours.

Could Bradley make the right-back position his own? The evidence suggests it’s only a matter of time.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, Bradley’s rise couldn’t come at a better time. Losing Alexander-Arnold would be a massive blow—not just for his defensive contributions but for the way he dictates play from deep. However, if anyone can step into those shoes, it’s Bradley.

His ability to defend one-on-one, his tenacity in duels, and his willingness to put in the hard yards are traits that fans adore. While he doesn’t yet offer the same range of passing, he has time to develop that side of his game. Let’s not forget—Trent wasn’t the finished article at 21 either.

In truth, the dream scenario would be for Liverpool to retain Alexander-Arnold while continuing to develop Bradley. A world where both coexist—perhaps with Trent moving into midfield more permanently—is an exciting possibility. However, if Alexander-Arnold does leave, Bradley has shown he won’t shy away from the responsibility.

Liverpool’s defensive future looks bright with Bradley in the ranks. If the transition is managed well, the right-back role might not be a cause for concern—it could be an area of strength for years to come.