Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has made a significant decision ahead of the Reds’ highly anticipated Premier League match against Arsenal this Sunday, confirming that vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold will not start. Instead, young Northern Irish defender Conor Bradley will take his place in the starting lineup, marking a pivotal moment as Liverpool prepares for life without their long-serving star, who is set to depart for Real Madrid at the end of the season.
Slot’s announcement, made during a press conference at the AXA Training Centre, comes on the heels of Alexander-Arnold’s public confirmation earlier this week that he will leave Liverpool when his contract expires this summer. The 26-year-old right-back, a product of the club’s academy, has been a cornerstone of Liverpool’s success, contributing to their Premier League and Champions League triumphs. However, with his exit looming, Slot has opted to prioritize the development of Bradley, a 21-year-old academy graduate who has shown immense promise.
“Conor Bradley will start against Arsenal, subject to fitness,” Slot stated, as reported by multiple sources, including posts on X from journalists covering the press conference. “Trent has been a huge part of this team, but we’re looking to the future, and Conor has earned this opportunity.” The decision reflects Slot’s pragmatic approach as he navigates the final three games of Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool tenure, with the Reds already crowned Premier League champions for the 2024/25 season.
Bradley, who has made sporadic appearances this season, is seen as Alexander-Arnold’s long-term successor. Slot has previously praised the young defender’s talent and temperament, noting his potential to fill the void left by the departing star. “Conor has shown he can handle the demands of this level,” Slot said, according to a report from the Liverpool Echo. “It’s important for him to get minutes and grow into the role.” However, the Dutch manager acknowledged the challenge of replacing Alexander-Arnold, whose unique playmaking ability from the right-back position has redefined the role.
The decision to bench Alexander-Arnold for the Arsenal match has sparked debate among fans and pundits. Some view it as a bold move to integrate Bradley into the first team, while others believe it risks disrupting the team’s rhythm against a formidable opponent. Arsenal, currently second in the Premier League, will present a stern test, with Mikel Arteta’s side expected to give Liverpool a guard of honor at Anfield following the Reds’ title triumph.
Slot also addressed the broader implications of Alexander-Arnold’s departure, which has been a topic of intense speculation throughout the season. The right-back informed Slot of his decision to seek a new challenge during the March international break, as revealed by The Athletic. Despite efforts from Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, to secure a contract extension, Alexander-Arnold’s mind was made up, with Real Madrid emerging as his likely destination. The Spanish giants reportedly aim to integrate him in time for the Club World Cup in June, according to the Daily Mail.