Trent Alexander-Arnold: The Evolution of a Modern Full-back
Since making his debut in 2016, Trent Alexander-Arnold has been a mainstay in the Liverpool lineup, amassing 310 appearances and becoming one of the most influential players in European football. At just 25, he is on the cusp of leading Liverpool into the 2024-25 campaign, a testament to his enduring talent and adaptability.
Trent's journey to the top hasn't always been straight forward. His role on the field has evolved significantly over the years, reflecting the changes in modern football. "He'd played in midfield in Pep Lijnders' Under-16s, at the base of the diamond," recalls Tim Jenkins, a former analyst and assistant coach for Liverpool Under-21s. "He was right in the middle of the pitch and involved in everything."
However, as he transitioned through the ranks, coaches began to harness his physical attributes. "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 adds. This flexibility became a cornerstone of his game, enabling him to adapt effortlessly to the demands of different positions.
Alexander-Arnold’s ability to switch between roles became particularly evident in his performances for England, where he has played in midfield in six of his last seven starts. "Today’s full-back is a lot more like a wing-back,” notes Jason McAteer, former Liverpool player. “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."
Jurgen Klopp has utilized Trent’s hybrid role to Liverpool's advantage, allowing him to transition between full-back and midfield positions based on the dynamics of the game. "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," explains Jenkins. This strategic flexibility has been vital in maximizing Alexander-Arnold’s contributions to the team.
Statistics highlight his impact on the field. In the 2018-19 season, he registered 12 assists in the Premier League, the third-highest tally, and followed it up with 13 assists the next season, second only to Kevin de Bruyne. Last season, he averaged 5.25 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes, ranking in the 99th percentile among full-backs in Europe's top five divisions. His expected assisted goals per 90 (0.37) and passes attempted (87.71) saw him in the top percentiles, emphasizing his creative prowess.
Yet, it hasn't been all smooth sailing for Trent. His defensive abilities have often come under scrutiny, particularly during his stints in midfield for England. "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 became a bit of a scapegoat," McAteer points out.
Despite these challenges, Alexander-Arnold remains crucial to Liverpool's success, even amid speculation linking him to Real Madrid. His contract, which expires in the summer, adds a layer of uncertainty to his future at the club. Nevertheless, his consistent performances and ability to adapt to various roles on the pitch ensure he remains a key player, regardless of potential transfer rumors.
Tim Jenkins sums it up: “If you see footage of him playing when he was little, he was basically the same player. You’d see all the driving runs, the physical attributes, his ball-striking, and his passing over distance. He's just adapted his strengths into whatever position he plays."
As Liverpool gears up for the new season, all eyes will be on Trent Alexander-Arnold. Will he remain a stalwart at Anfield, or will a new chapter in his career begin? One thing’s for sure: wherever he lines up on the pitch, Trent is set to continue making waves in the football world.