Liverpool Face Immediate Trent Alexander-Arnold Dilemma as Conor Bradley’s Role is Highlighted

Ian Doyle reviews the key points after Liverpool were held to a 2-2 draw at home by Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday.

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future had once again been a major topic of discussion during the week, but now his present is what deserves attention.

The right-back’s performance against Manchester United was always going to attract scrutiny, especially after Real Madrid’s recent failed attempt to convince Liverpool to let him leave this month. Although no new contract is in the works, the Spanish club remain favorites to sign him on a free transfer in the summer.

Rather than demonstrate his usual composure amid speculation, Alexander-Arnold had an abysmal game. His passing radar was off, he lacked the usual desire to track back, and his decision-making left much to be desired. The issues were evident early on when Alexander-Arnold failed to notice United’s Kobbie Mainoo returning to the field from treatment, walking behind him to challenge for possession. He was easily caught out of position in the first half and was partly responsible for United’s opening goal. It was telling that in the 86th minute, Conor Bradley, his replacement, made a successful tackle within just a minute of coming on. As Arne Slot pointed out, difficult games are part of every player’s career, but the timing of this poor performance couldn’t have been worse. With Bradley now fit, the competition for his spot has become more intense.

Mac Allister steps up

Alexis Mac Allister, who missed last season’s meeting with Manchester United due to injury, was eager to make an impact in this match. While several of his teammates struggled under difficult conditions, Mac Allister, with his gloves on and sleeves metaphorically rolled up, emerged as one of Liverpool’s best performers.

The Argentina international nearly opened the scoring in the first half with a superb first-time shot, which was saved by United goalkeeper Andre Onana’s leg. He later played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s equalizer, delivering a precise pass for Cody Gakpo to score. Mac Allister also won the penalty that allowed Mohamed Salah to level the all-time Premier League scoring chart alongside Thierry Henry by forcing Matthijs de Ligt into a handball.

Ryan Gravenberch, alongside him, came close to scoring but wasn’t quite as solid defensively as he had been in previous matches. Curtis Jones, on the other hand, struggled to make a consistent impact throughout the game. With Dominik Szoboszlai absent, it was somewhat surprising that Harvey Elliott only made a brief appearance late on. Given the upcoming League Cup semi-final and FA Cup tie, Elliott and other fringe players are likely to see more minutes in the coming matches.

Konate’s welcome return

Conor Bradley wasn’t the only player making a return to Liverpool’s defense. Ibrahima Konate also started for the first time since suffering a knee injury against Real Madrid in late November.

While Joe Gomez has done admirably in Konate’s absence, the Frenchman’s partnership with Virgil van Dijk has been a key foundation for Liverpool’s title push. Konate showed his strength early in the game, but it was clear he wasn’t fully ready to play the full 90 minutes. Though he was solid in aerial duels, he tired as the match wore on and was slow to close down Alejandro Garnacho, which contributed to United’s equalizer.

With Liverpool struggling for control, Van Dijk—celebrating seven years since his debut—was forced to make several crucial interceptions and blocks. He almost snatched a late winner, but Onana denied him. It was yet another frustrating moment for Slot’s team on a challenging afternoon.