Dutch coach Arne Slot, Liverpool’s manager, stood by Arnold (26), following the player’s “underwhelming” performance against Manchester United on Sunday in the 20th round of the Premier League.
The match at Anfield ended in a 2-2 draw. United scored both their goals from Alexander-Arnold’s side, and he also received a yellow card before being substituted in the 86th minute.
Trent faced heavy criticism from fans and media after the game. Some accused the English right-back of “losing focus,” especially since rumors link him to a potential free transfer to Real Madrid in the summer.
Slot’s view on Alexander-Arnold’s performance
Arne Slot addressed the criticism in comments shared by Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano on “X.” He said, “We were all disappointed with how we played. Trent didn’t have his best match, but he has delivered many good performances for this club. Like other players, he struggled against Manchester United.”
Alexander-Arnold received the second-lowest rating (6.6/10) among Liverpool’s starting players from “Sofa Score.” The English international didn’t win any aerial or ground duels, lost possession 27 times, and failed to make his usual attacking impact.
Team standings and upcoming matches
The draw earned Liverpool one point, raising their total to 46 points from 19 matches (14 wins, 4 draws, 1 loss), keeping them at the top of the league standings. Manchester United now has 23 points from 20 matches (6 wins, 5 draws, 9 losses), sitting in 13th place.
Liverpool’s next match is tomorrow, Wednesday, against Tottenham Hotspur in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-finals. Meanwhile, Manchester United faces Arsenal next Sunday, January 12, in the third round of the FA Cup.
Rumors about Alexander-Arnold’s future
Alexander-Arnold’s contract with Liverpool ends on June 30. Reports suggest he has decided to join Real Madrid next summer on a free transfer, though there is no official confirmation yet.
