footballtopstar

Tag: Conor Bradley

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

    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

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

    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.

  • Latest Liverpool injury updates and potential return dates for Ibrahima Konate and Conor Bradley

    Latest Liverpool injury updates and potential return dates for Ibrahima Konate and Conor Bradley

    Liverpool's injury situation has improved significantly in recent weeks,

    Liverpool’s injury situation has improved significantly in recent weeks, with several key players returning since early December. Alisson, Harvey Elliott, Federico Chiesa, Diogo Jota, and Kostas Tsimikas, all of whom have faced lengthy injury setbacks this season, have all made their comebacks this month.

    Despite this progress, head coach Arne Slot is still without a fully fit squad, as both Conor Bradley and Ibrahima Konate remain sidelined. Here’s the latest on their recoveries:

    Ibrahima Konate
    Konate suffered a knee injury in stoppage time during Liverpool’s victory over Real Madrid at the end of November, following a clash with Endrick and Virgil van Dijk. It was initially reported that the French center-back would be out for five to six weeks, ruling him out of Liverpool’s hectic December fixtures.

    Expected return date: January 2025

    Conor Bradley
    Bradley’s injury also occurred in the match against Real Madrid, where a strong performance was interrupted by a hamstring issue in the second half. According to The Belfast Telegraph, the Northern Ireland international is also expected to be sidelined for six weeks.

    Expected return date: January 2025

    What Slot said about Konate and Bradley’s returns
    On December 20, Slot commented: “These are the two that are still ‘in the red’, so they don’t train with us at the moment. They are on their way back but they don’t train with the team yet.”

    When asked about their potential return, he added: “That is, what I’ve said before, quite difficult. We thought, I thought, that [Diogo] Jota would have been back a bit earlier already, and sometimes the final stage of rehab takes a bit longer. Sometimes they join [training] and then they are like, ‘I’m not completely ready to start yet.’ So, let’s wait and see but we have very good rehab personnel over here and they’ve done some good work already with Alisson and a few others.”

    He concluded: “The main thing is that if they come back, they are ready to come back and we must not focus on one, two, or three days. It’s more important for the long term that they stay fit afterwards. Until now they have done really well and hopefully with Conor and Ibou the same thing happens.”

  • Liverpool Injury Update and Potential Return Dates for Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate

    Liverpool Injury Update and Potential Return Dates for Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate

    Liverpool's injury concerns have eased recently

    Liverpool’s injury concerns have eased recently with the returns of Alisson, Diogo Jota, and Federico Chiesa. However, several players are still sidelined during one of the busiest periods of the season.

    In the past week, Liverpool’s injury situation has improved, with Alisson, Diogo Jota, and Federico Chiesa rejoining Arne Slot’s squad. Alisson made his comeback in the Champions League match against Girona, while Jota came off the bench to secure a draw for the Reds against Fulham on Saturday.

    Despite these positive returns, a few players are still recovering, and here’s the latest update on their injuries, along with some suspension details.

    Ibrahima Konate
    Konate injured his knee during stoppage time of Liverpool’s win against Real Madrid at the end of November, after a clash with Endrick and Virgil van Dijk. It was initially reported that the French center-back would be sidelined for five to six weeks, missing all of Liverpool’s games in a packed December schedule.

    What Slot has said: “They will both (Konate and Conor Bradley) be out for a few weeks. I have said many times before, it’s always difficult to judge how many weeks this exactly is because you can think in the beginning it’ll be like this and then the end stage of an injury process can always differ a bit.” – quote from December 1.

    Expected return date: January 2025

    Conor Bradley
    Bradley also picked up an injury in the Madrid game, as his excellent performance was interrupted by a hamstring issue in the second half. The Belfast Telegraph reported shortly after the match that the Northern Ireland international was expected to be out for about six weeks.

    What Slot has said: “They will both (Bradley and Ibrahima Konate) be out for a few weeks. I have said many times before, it’s always difficult to judge how many weeks this exactly is because you can think in the beginning it’ll be like this and then the end stage of an injury process can always differ a bit.” – quote from December 1.

    Expected return date: January 2025

    Kostas Tsimikas
    Tsimikas hasn’t played for Liverpool since early November due to an ankle injury, but he returned to training last week and could be ready for a return in the coming days.

    Possible return date: 18 December vs Southampton or 22 December vs Tottenham

    Andy Robertson

    Liverpool's injury concerns have eased recently

    Due to Tsimikas’ injury, Robertson has featured in all of Liverpool’s last seven matches across all competitions. However, he will miss the next match after being sent off against Fulham. He will serve his suspension during the Carabao Cup match against Southampton and will be available for the upcoming trip to Spurs.

    Expected return date: 22 December vs Tottenham

    Alexis Mac Allister
    Mac Allister has missed consecutive matches due to suspensions, first in the Champions League against Girona and then in the Premier League against Fulham. His last appearance was in the 3-3 draw with Newcastle on November 4. He will be well-rested when he returns, likely against Southampton this week.

    Expected return date: 18 December vs Southampton

  • Liverpool to miss 6 players against Man City as Reds aim for major title boost

    Liverpool to miss 6 players against Man City as Reds aim for major title boost

    Two additional Liverpool players picked up injuries during Wednesday’s Champions League victory over Real Madrid.

    Liverpool could be missing six players for their upcoming match with Manchester City after Ibrahima Konate and Conor Bradley both suffered injuries late in Wednesday’s win against Real Madrid.

    Konate sustained a knee injury in stoppage time following a collision between teammate Virgil van Dijk and Madrid striker Endrick, and he is expected to be sidelined for five to six weeks.

    Bradley, on the other hand, was substituted due to a suspected hamstring strain. While there have been no clear updates on his condition, hamstring injuries are typically managed with caution, making it unlikely he will feature against City this weekend.

    The Reds will also continue to be without long-term absentees, including Alisson, Diogo Jota, and Federico Chiesa. Alisson has been absent since early October due to a hamstring issue, while Jota last played on October 20 against Chelsea.

    Chiesa has played less than 100 minutes since his arrival at Liverpool, and Slot mentioned earlier this week that he isn’t yet fully fit, as he continues his recovery after transferring from Juventus in the summer.

    Liverpool to miss 6 players against Man City as Reds aim for major title boost

    Kostas Tsimikas is also reported to have suffered an ankle injury in training, which will keep him out for several weeks.

    Should Alisson remain unavailable for the City match, Caoimhin Kelleher will continue as goalkeeper for the Reds, with Bradley and Konate likely to be replaced by Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joe Gomez.

    Alexander-Arnold has been dealing with his own hamstring issue recently, missing England’s games during the last international break and Liverpool’s win over Southampton last weekend.

    The 26-year-old returned to the squad against Madrid but was an unused substitute, with Gomez stepping in for the injured Bradley late in the match.

    Harvey Elliott, still waiting for his first minutes under Slot since August, was also an unused substitute against both Southampton and Madrid after recovering from a foot injury sustained during the September international break.

    More news…..

    Liverpool presents proposal to secure pre-contract with defender earning £183,000 per week

    Alphonso Davies

    Liverpool, with Michael Edwards at the helm, is undoubtedly already planning for the upcoming season. The Reds have a strong history of effective squad planning and will want to maintain that momentum.

    A key strategy for future planning involves targeting players from other top clubs who are nearing the end of their contracts without having renewed. Liverpool is well aware of this, especially with their own trio—Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, and Mohamed Salah—in similar situations.

    About a month ago, we reported that Liverpool expressed interest in Bayern Munich left-back Alphonso Davies, who is currently earning around £183,000 a week and has just nine months left on his contract with the Bundesliga side.

    According to Grizz Khan of 90min, Liverpool has made a pre-contract offer to Davies, should he decide to leave Bayern. The Canadian will be eligible to negotiate with foreign clubs starting January 1, 2025.

    However, the report indicates that despite Liverpool’s keen interest, they are likely to lose out to Real Madrid. The Spanish giants have been pursuing Davies for some time, and when they set their sights on a player, they often succeed.

    Liverpool has experienced similar disappointments in transfer battles with Madrid, such as with *Aurelien Tchouameni*. Although the Reds will strive to secure Davies, overcoming Real Madrid may prove challenging.

    Still, football can be unpredictable, and until Davies officially signs elsewhere, anything is possible. Let’s see how this unfolds.

  • Liverpool receives SIGNIFICANT injury lift as ‘exceptional’ defender COMES BACK

    Liverpool receives SIGNIFICANT injury lift as ‘exceptional’ defender COMES BACK

    Isaac Mabaya

    Liverpool received a significant injury boost on Saturday with the return of an exciting prospect to action.

    However, Arne Slot is still facing challenges, as players like Harvey Elliott, Alisson Becker, and Diogo Jota remain sidelined. Additionally, the fitness of Conor Bradley and Federico Chiesa is uncertain.

    The Reds celebrated the comeback of a highly rated player who had been on the fringes of the first team. He returned during the U21 mini-derby against Everton on Saturday afternoon.

    Isaac Mabaya made his comeback

    Taking the field as a second-half substitute in the match, which ended in a 2-0 defeat for Liverpool.

    This marked Mabaya’s first competitive appearance for the club since he played in a victory against Manchester United’s U21 side in April. The last two years have been particularly tough for the young player, as he made just his sixth competitive outing against Everton.

    Barry Lewtas, the U21 coach, has praised Mabaya’s resilience and character, stating, “Isaac’s sadly on that list of players who’ve missed a lot of football. He is a fantastic character. He’s a strong boy; we’ve had these moments before with players who’ve come through the other side. We’ll just keep working hard.”

    With this mindset, Mabaya has the potential to regain his previous form, and at Liverpool, he is in an environment that will provide him the necessary support to succeed.

    Why Isaac Mabaya’s Injury is a Major Advantage for Liverpool

    While Isaac Mabaya’s popularity among Liverpool fans may have declined over the past two years, it’s crucial to remember the excitement surrounding his potential during the pre-season of the 2022/23 season. In that season, he was viewed as a legitimate backup option to Trent Alexander-Arnold, ranking ahead of players like Conor Bradley.

    Injuries have certainly hindered his development recently, but at just 20 years old, Mabaya has ample opportunity to return to the form that saw him achieve 18 goal contributions in 33 appearances for the club’s U18 team. If he can reclaim that form, Slot will have another highly promising talent to integrate into his first team squad.

    More news…..

    Trent Alexander-Arnold has outlined his demands to Real Madrid for leaving Liverpool

    Once, the idea of Trent Alexander-Arnold leaving Liverpool seemed almost impossible

    Once, the idea of Trent Alexander-Arnold leaving Liverpool seemed almost impossible. Now, with his contract ending this season, the right-back faces an uncertain future.

    At 25, he has under 10 months remaining on his deal, which earns him £180,000 per week according to Spotrac. If a contract extension isn’t reached, he will become a free agent at the season’s end and can negotiate with clubs outside England starting in January.

    Real Madrid, managed by Carlo Ancelotti, is reportedly interested in acquiring him. The club consistently seeks top talent and is in the process of assembling what many consider the best squad in football.

    With stars like Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo, Kylian Mbappe, and likely future Ballon d’Or winner Vini Jr, Madrid boasts a formidable attack. However, president Florentino Perez aims to strengthen the defense, and Alexander-Arnold is a prime target.

    Attracting him from Liverpool won’t be straightforward due to his strong ties with the club. Nevertheless, a recent report from Fichajes states that the England international has conveyed his terms to the La Liga side.

    His first condition is a substantial salary increase, which Real Madrid could accommodate, as 11 players at the club currently earn more than he does at Liverpool (Capology). The second condition is to join a trophy-winning team—a request Madrid can easily fulfill, having won three major titles last season, including the Champions League.

    With no signs of waning, Madrid continues to solidify its status as Europe’s premier club.

  • Liverpool’s surprising new captain is revealed as the Arne Slot leadership group expands.

    Liverpool’s surprising new captain is revealed as the Arne Slot leadership group expands.

    Liverpool's roster is increasingly filled with international captains

    Liverpool’s roster is increasingly filled with international captains, highlighting the leadership presence within the squad.

    Before Conor Bradley was appointed as captain of Northern Ireland, manager Michael O’Neill consulted with Liverpool’s staff. O’Neill considered making the Reds’ right-back the youngest captain in the nation’s history but wanted insights from those who work closely with him.

    The feedback was favorable; those O’Neill spoke with felt that Bradley was well-prepared for the pressures of national captaincy. His experience as a deputy to Trent Alexander-Arnold and his ability to manage the demands of a club like Liverpool indicated he had the right temperament for the role.

    With veterans like Steven Davis, Stuart Dallas, and Jonny Evans stepping away from international football, Bradley took on the captaincy for Saturday’s goalless draw in Belarus. At just 21, he is positioned to lead his nation for the foreseeable future, as long as he maintains his form and fitness.

    “I captained youth teams before,” Bradley stated. “I think I was captain all the way from Under-13s to 16s or 17s, so I have previous experience as Northern Ireland captain, and I’m really proud.

    “It’s going to be a really good night, and hopefully we can cap it off with a result to make it a really special occasion. I’ve just told my mum and my girlfriend. They said they’re very proud of me, a massive well done. I’m really happy and can’t wait for tomorrow now.”

    The year 2024 will be unforgettable for Bradley. After breaking into the Liverpool lineup and consistently impressing at the start of the year in the absence of an injured Alexander-Arnold, he faced the tragic loss of his father during a peak period of his form under Jurgen Klopp in early February.

    Bradley also played a crucial role in the Carabao Cup victory against Chelsea at Wembley later that month, furthering his career with additional appearances during the closing weeks of Klopp’s historic tenure.

    Liverpool's roster is increasingly filled with international captains

    His appointment as captain for the national team highlights his promising career, making him the sixth international captain at Anfield, alongside experienced teammates like Virgil van Dijk (Netherlands), Andy Robertson (Scotland), Dominik Szoboszlai (Hungary), Wataru Endo (Japan), and Mohamed Salah (Egypt).

    Ibrahima Konate briefly held the France armband during their 4-1 victory over Israel when Aurelien Tchouameni, the night’s skipper from Real Madrid, was substituted. Arne Slot is likely pleased with the growing list of leaders emerging at Anfield.

    Liverpool’s leadership group has transformed in recent years, evolving from Jordan Henderson, James Milner, Van Dijk, and Gini Wijnaldum to now include Robertson, Alexander-Arnold as vice-captain, Salah, and goalkeeper Alisson Becker. Additionally, Alexis Mac Allister is becoming a notable influence within the team.

    Regarding the decision to appoint Van Dijk as club captain and Alexander-Arnold as his deputy after Henderson and Milner departed in the summer of 2023, former manager Klopp said: “I think for all the duties a Liverpool captain has to perform, I believe the first three (Van Dijk, Alexander-Arnold, and Robertson) are best suited for those roles.

    “And then the other two (Salah and Alisson) can be themselves, helping the team in the best possible way while staying true to who they are, as that’s the player we signed, the player we love, and the player we need.”

    “Mo, captain of Egypt, one of the best players to ever play for this club. But strikers are different; they have to be unique – and we all benefit from that. We need him as a role model, leading the line, being the first to press, and setting the standard on the pitch.”

    While Liverpool’s squad tends to be youthful, the presence of multiple captains underscores a team characterized by professionalism, dedication, and strong leadership qualities, a sentiment echoed by those at the club regarding Bradley’s influence on O’Neill.

  • Liverpool’s Conor Bradley discusses his experiences learning from Arne Slot’s coaching team.

    Liverpool’s Conor Bradley discusses his experiences learning from Arne Slot’s coaching team.

    Liverpool's Conor Bradley discusses his experiences learning from Arne Slot's coaching team

    Liverpool’s Dutch manager Arne Slot has quickly made an impact, with several players thriving under his leadership. Ryan Gravenberch has shown remarkable improvement, with Jamie Carragher comparing him to Premier League icon Patrick Vieira.

    Meanwhile, new signing Federico Chiesa has praised Luis Diaz, who has been one of the standout players this season, second only to Erling Haaland.

    Despite a historic loss to Nottingham Forest, Liverpool remains at the top of the Premier League after five matches and looks strong in the UEFA Champions League, following a 3-1 victory over AC Milan.

    Youngster Conor Bradley has shared his experiences learning from Slot’s coaching team. He mentioned that he feels he has significantly improved this season, continuing to serve as an understudy to Trent Alexander-Arnold after a breakout year last term. Set to start against West Ham, Bradley is one of Liverpool’s promising talents, and it appears Slot’s coaching staff has already influenced his development.

    Liverpool's Conor Bradley discusses his experiences learning from Arne Slot's coaching team.

    When discussing his time with Slot’s staff, Bradley remarked, “It’s been really good. I think they’ve improved me a lot, obviously we do lots of individual meetings and things like that so it’s been really good.

    I’ve really enjoyed it and it’s been a good start to the season but there is still loads to improve on for, I think, the whole team. So, we’ve just got to keep going and keep improving.”

    Bradley is recognized as one of the Premier League’s top young defenders after excelling under Jurgen Klopp last season while Alexander-Arnold was sidelined.

    With the knowledge he’s gaining from his new coaches, Bradley has the potential to become a key asset for Liverpool this season, especially if he can secure regular playing time in the Premier League and domestic competitions.

    Overall, Bradley is a promising prospect who seems determined to learn and grow under Slot’s coaching staff in the upcoming months.

    More news…..

    According to report – Liverpool ready to negotiate a major deal after player turns down contract offer

    Trent Alexander-Arnold is a standout player for

    Trent Alexander-Arnold is a standout player for Liverpool, boasting an impressive 101 goal contributions in 315 matches as a full-back. At just 25, he is already the club’s vice-captain and a key figure on the team.

    Currently, Liverpool faces a pressing issue regarding Alexander-Arnold’s future, as his contract runs out in 2025.

    According to Team Talk, the club is prepared to offer him one of the highest salaries to ensure he remains at Anfield, especially after he declined an initial contract proposal.

    Real Madrid, renowned for their talent acquisition, is reportedly interested in making a free transfer for the England international next summer.

    The Spanish club has recently focused on securing top players without transfer fees, as seen with their signing of Kylian Mbappe when his contract with PSG ended.

    Liverpool is eager to avoid losing Alexander-Arnold, particularly not to a rival like Real Madrid. This situation isn’t unique to him; club legends Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah are also in similar predicaments, although their ages—33 and 32 respectively—make their retention less critical compared to that of the younger Alexander-Arnold.

    Negotiations may prove challenging, and it could take time for Liverpool to persuade him. He certainly merits being among the highest-paid players globally, so it remains to be seen if the club can finalize a new deal soon.

  • Shock Liverpool star backed to become world class amid ‘absolutely fantastic’ honour

    Shock Liverpool star backed to become world class amid ‘absolutely fantastic’ honour

    Conor Bradley, a Liverpool youngster, is expected to have a bright future when he begins training with new head coach Arne Slot.

    Conor Bradley, a Liverpool youngster, is expected to have a bright future when he begins training with new head coach Arne Slot.

    Former Eredivisie title winner Slot has accepted a three-year contract with Liverpool, taking on the difficult challenge of succeeding club legend Jurgen Klopp. While it will be difficult for the former Feyenoord manager to replicate Klopp’s success on Merseyside, he will at least inherit a strong group.

    Liverpool rebuilt their midfield last summer, recruiting Alexis MacAllister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch, and Wataru Endo.

    The Reds are also developing promising young players such as Bradley, Jarell Quansah, Ben Doak, and Lewis Koumas, which has led to the team being dubbed ‘Liverpool 2.0’.

    Bradley is one player Slot will be looking forward to working with, and he may even offer the full-back a lucrative new contract. The 20-year-old might take over Trent Alexander-Arnold’s right-back duties, allowing the latter to move permanently to midfield.

    Bradley, who has already played 17 times for Northern Ireland, has got high praise from his international teammate Brodie Spencer.

    “Conor Bradley is going to be one of the best players in the world,” Spencer stated in a recent interview.

    “He’s had a tremendous season, and being able to play beside him is fantastic. It’s such a relief to be playing at centre-back with him by my side. Liverpool news:

    Conor Bradley is praised 

    Conor Bradley, a Liverpool youngster, is expected to have a bright future when he begins training with new head coach Arne Slot.

    “He is always present and supportive, and he can get out of tough circumstances, score goals, and make things happen in attack. It’s fantastic to play with him. He is such a great player and makes the job appear easy.”

    After Bradley impressed in a 4-0 win over Bournemouth in January, Klopp stated, “[He is] outstanding. There is a good amount of hostility throughout the game. He’s such a wonderful footballer; he didn’t always show it today, but he is, and his attitude is outstanding.

    “He has speed, he has aggression, all the things you need in that position.”

    Bradley will be hoping to establish himself as a regular starter under Slot, much like he did when Alexander-Arnold was injured for parts of the 2023-24 season. However, Bradley’s playing time will be determined by if Liverpool signs another right-back this summer.

    Gravenberch is the second player that could reach new heights under the Dutch coach. Ryan Sr., Ryan’s father, told reporters in the Netherlands, “I don’t think he’s spoken to Slot yet, but Ryan is glad he’s coming.

    “Although he enjoyed playing under Klopp, Ryan prefers Slot’s playing style.

    “Slot plays more like Manchester City and Arsenal; under Klopp, Liverpool played more directly. According to Ryan’s training at Ajax, Slot’s game is better suited to him.

  • Arne Slot can unleash the replacement for Thiago Alcantara that Liverpool signed three years ago.

    Arne Slot can unleash the replacement for Thiago Alcantara that Liverpool signed three years ago.

    Arne Slot can unleash the replacement for Thiago Alcantara that Liverpool signed three years ago. Arne Slot can unleash Thiago Alcantara's

    Several Liverpool teenagers threaten to make the breakthrough under new head coach Arne Slot next season.

    Liverpool are looking to sign Lille defender Leny Yoro during the summer transfer window.

    However, the club recognises the gravity of Real Madrid’s interest in the 18-year-old, with the Spanish club presently the obvious favourites to sign him this summer.

    Nonetheless, Liverpool’s interest in a young talent like Yoro demonstrates the club’s clear plan to build for the future under Arne Slot, and the Dutchman will arrive at Anfield to discover a number of outstanding young players already in his squad.

    Jarell Quansah had a breakout season last year, but who will follow in his footsteps as Liverpool’s next breakthrough star? Our writers have their say.

    Ian Doyle: Liverpool has been fortunate in recent seasons in that when opportunities have arisen for their young players in the first squad, they have usually delivered.

    Jarell Quansah and Conor Bradley answered the call this season, while Stefan Bajcetic did the same the year before. Before that, Harvey Elliott, Curtis Jones, Neco Williams, and, farther back, Trent Alexander-Arnold all seized the opportunity to not only help the senior team but also improve their chances of a top-level career.

    Jarell Quansah and Conor Bradley
    Jarell Quansah and Conor Bradley

    It speaks a lot about Liverpool’s injury woes this season that nine Academy graduates have made their first-team debuts. However, a player who made his first Reds appearance over two years ago will undoubtedly be the breakout sensation next season.

    Indeed, if it hadn’t been for his personal fitness concerns, Bobby Clark would almost definitely have sealed his position in the senior squad for good during the most recent season. Clark missed more than four months at the start of the season as well as the final weeks, but he appeared in 23 matchday squads in between.

    Highlights included a cameo from the bench in the FA Cup win over Arsenal, his first Premier League start at Nottingham Forest, his first FA Cup assist against Southampton, and his debut goal in the Europa League victory over Sparta Prague.

    Clark, who turned 19 in February, is still in the early stages of his career. Few would be surprised if he became a regular in and around Liverpool’s first squad next season. He truly is that good.

    Theo Squires: If Bobby Clark’s season hadn’t been cut short by injury, we’d definitely be talking about him in the same way as Jarell Quansah and Conor Bradley have. Jurgen Klopp already deemed him a fully-fledged first-team player, despite the fact that we’ve just seen glimpses of his brilliance for Liverpool so far.

    The midfielder had to wait until the FA Cup match against Arsenal to make his first senior game of the season, and he was limited to only 12 matches last season due to injuries. Despite this, he went on to achieve his first goal, first assist, first Premier League start, European debut, and maiden winner’s medal in a memorable breakthrough season. This is only the beginning.

    Clark, who was only 19, was unfortunate to miss out on the Europa League group stages and the early rounds of the League Cup due to an injury. But when he returned to fitness, he made up for lost time, catching the eye against Chelsea at Wembley Stadium to help Liverpool win the League Cup. Next season, he will undoubtedly take those next steps.

    Some may believe the Reds need a new midfielder following Thiago Alcantara’s exit, despite the Spaniard making only one substitute appearance in the final 18 months of his Liverpool tenure. However, in Clark, the club already has a ready-made substitute.

    Slot may look forward to unleashing the talented teenager, who, like Quansah and Bradley before him, did not appear out of place in the Premier League. While a return to the Champions League may limit the game time available to a handful of Reds rookies, Clark is eager to make an impression nevertheless.

    Joe Rimmer: Anyone who witnessed the Carabao Cup final can attest to Liverpool’s young talent.

    Arne Slot can unleash the replacement for Thiago Alcantara that Liverpool signed three years ago.
    Kaide Gordon

    But they have a slightly overlooked (though certainly not within the club) teenager who will undoubtedly step up next season – though where he does so remains to be determined.

    Kaide Gordon will not be with Liverpool’s under-21s next season.

    Still only 19, the winger is ready for more regular first-team action, and if he isn’t in Liverpool’s senior squad, expect him to flourish on loan at another club.

    Gordon’s potential is great, and it should not be forgotten how highly regarded he was when he first appeared under Wayne Rooney as a 16-year-old prodigy. Liverpool beat Manchester United to sign him for a sum that might increase to about £3 million, and he quickly impressed Jurgen Klopp.

    Gordon made four appearances in the 2021/22 season and impressed in the Carabao Cup semi-final at Arsenal. Then injury hit, and he missed over 18 months of playing due to a variety of issues.

    He returned to make three senior games last season, impressing the coaching staff as he improved near the conclusion of the season. More can be predicted next season.

  • Arne Slot may admire Conor Bradley’s two goals in seven minutes after switching roles.

    Arne Slot may admire Conor Bradley’s two goals in seven minutes after switching roles.

    Arne Slot may admire Conor Bradley's two goals in seven minutes after switching roles. Conor Bradley's rise continued on Tuesday

    Conor Bradley’s rise continued on Tuesday night, with two goals in seven minutes for Northern Ireland, after taking on an intriguing new role for his country.

    In an interview with the Belfast Telegraph, Bradley reflected on the previous season and stated, “All my dreams came true in the past 12 months.”

    After returning from a breakout loan at Bolton, the youthful right-back made 23 games, 17 of which were starts, scoring his first senior goal and assisting six times.

    His excellent run continued this week, as he scored both goals in Northern Ireland’s 2-0 triumph over Andorra, winning the match in just seven minutes.

    Bradley had already caused havoc in the third minute with his usual sprint and cross, with the ball eventually landing for a well-saved effort.

    The kid then put his side ahead 1-0 with a fantastic run across goal to tap home Callum Marshall’s cross at the front post.

    Seven minutes later, the ball broke for Jamal Lewis on the left wing, and after the former Liverpool target’s ball evaded two clearances, it fell for Bradley to convert with a diving header.

    Arne Slot may admire Conor Bradley's two goals in seven minutes after switching roles.

    Northern Ireland dominated a side ranked 91 places lower in FIFA’s world rankings, but were unable to add to Bradley’s brace.

    Liverpool’s No. 84 was their strongest threat throughout, playing in a more advanced role on the right side that allowed him to overlap, with at least twice as many touches in the opposition’s area as any other player, according to FotMob (eight).

    Bradley’s two goals saw him move into positions more suited to a central striker, and Arne Slot was undoubtedly drawn to his attacking flair.

    Slot joins the club faced with finding a role for both Bradley and Trent Alexander-Arnold, with the Northern Irishman’s breakthrough potentially allowing the No. 66 to move into midfield full-time.

    On Tuesday, Diogo Jota and Caoimhin Kelleher squared battle as Portugal defeated the Republic of Ireland 3-0 in their penultimate friendly before the Euros.

    Kelleher began his second of two post-season friendlies, but was defeated three times, including a Cristiano Ronaldo strike set up by Jota.

    Jota is not expected to start Portugal’s Group F opener against the Czech Republic on Tuesday night, but the 27-year-old has made an impression in the buildup, scoring and assisting in two 45-minute appearances.

    More news……

    According to reports – Barcelona must sell players to outsmart PSG for Liverpool’s €75 million star

    According to reports - Barcelona must sell players to outsmart PSG for Liverpool's €75 million star

    Report Says. FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain are both interested in Liverpool’s Luis Díaz, who may be available this summer.

    Although the 27-year-old’s contract expires in 2027, his name keeps coming up in rumours as the transfer window approaches. During the 2023-4 season, Díaz made 51 games and scored 13 goals and five assists.

    As a result, PSG and Barcelona may regard his performance as beneficial as both teams strive to improve their assault for the upcoming season. Díaz, a former FC Porto star, may be available for move after facing criticism.

    With manager Jürgen Klopp already gone, Liverpool will most certainly witness some changes, and players may leave the club.

    According to Ian Doyle of the Liverpool Echo, both PSG and Barcelona are interested in signing the winger. However, Barcelona will need to sell some players before making a bid for Díaz.

    How much might the player cost? According to Transfermarkt, the Liverpool wonder is worth €75 million, thus he will need a huge offer to leave Anfield this summer.