Trent Alexander-Arnold's trajectory in football has been a testament to adaptability and skill. Since making his debut for Liverpool in 2016, the 25-year-old has accumulated 310 appearances, becoming an integral part of the squad. Now, as he prepares for Liverpool's 2024-25 campaign, his versatility on the field continues to attract attention.
Over the years, Alexander-Arnold has primarily operated as a right-back, but his role has evolved significantly. Recently, he has found success in midfield, a position he has played in six of his last seven starts for England. This shift isn't entirely new; Tim Jenkins, a former analyst and assistant coach for Liverpool Under-21s, recalls his earlier days: "He'd played in midfield in Pep Lijnders' Under-16s, at the base of the diamond. He was right in the middle of the pitch and involved in everything."
A Natural Progression
Alexander-Arnold’s development through Liverpool's youth ranks showcased his versatility. He started as a centre-half and full-back in the Under-15s before transitioning to more advanced roles. "When he went into the Under-18s with Neil Critchley, they started to help him use his physical attributes a bit, so he played on the outside as a right winger or a right full-back," Jenkins recounts.
This adaptability has been crucial, especially in the ever-evolving landscape of modern football. As Jason McAteer, former Liverpool and Republic of Ireland player, notes, "Today's full-back is a lot more like a wing-back. You've got to get forward. You've got to get balls into the box. And you have this hybrid role where you come into midfield."
Exceptional Playmaking
Alexander-Arnold's playmaking abilities have been a hallmark of his career. In the 2018-19 Premier League season, he registered the third-highest tally of assists with 12, a figure he surpassed the following season with 13 assists, second only to Kevin de Bruyne. His 2021-22 campaign saw him match his previous record of 12 assists, bettered only by Mohamed Salah.
Last season, his statistics were nothing short of extraordinary. His average of 5.25 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes in the Premier League and Europa League ranked in the 99th percentile among full-backs in Europe's top five divisions. Additionally, he was in the 99th percentile for expected assisted goals per 90 (0.37) and passes attempted (87.71), and in the 98th percentile for progressive passes (8.69).
Navigating Challenges
Despite his attacking prowess, Alexander-Arnold's defensive capabilities have often been scrutinized. McAteer opines, "Trent's weakest attribute is his defending and he was playing as a deep-lying midfielder. He was great on the ball, but without it he was exposed and he became a bit of a scapegoat."
However, Jenkins believes that Alexander-Arnold’s hybrid role suits him best. "I think that hybrid full-back role is still his best position, where he can roll into the inside of the pitch. He can be a full-back when you haven't got the ball and a midfielder when you have," he suggests.
Future Prospects
With his contract expiring in the summer, Alexander-Arnold has been linked with a move to Real Madrid. His absence from Liverpool's tour of America and subsequent return to start the final pre-season friendly against Sevilla at right-back indicate a period of transition.
As Klopp maneuvered through these adjustments, Jenkins reflected on Klopp’s approach: "Klopp would say that sometimes Trent will be on the outside, sometimes he'll be on the inside – wherever he is, he’s just going to be Trent."
Indeed, Alexander-Arnold's ability to adapt and excel in multiple roles will be pivotal as Liverpool navigates the upcoming season. Whether he remains in Merseyside or embarks on a new chapter, his unique skillset and football intelligence ensure he will continue to be a significant figure on the pitch.