The Tactical Tweak that Unleashed Alexander-Arnold’s ‘Masterclass’ | OneFootball

Analysing Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Return to Traditional Right-Back Role

Who knew that playing a right back in that positing could be so effective. Liverpool’s recent clash showcased a tactical twist that could hopefully mark a significant change in Trent Alexander-Arnold’s role within the team. Known for his inventive play and dynamic presence on the pitch, Trent’s performance against Tottenham Hotspur offered a glimpse into the benefits of deploying him in a more conventional attacking right-back position rather than the inverted role he has often assumed.

Classic Right-Back Brilliance

In a match where every move he made was crucial, Trent Alexander-Arnold’s adherence to a more traditional right-back role paid dividends. Shifting away from his usual inverted role, his statistics were telling of his impact. He led the team with the highest number of passes into the final third (15), signalling his pivotal role in bridging the midfield and attack. Not only did his strategic positioning allow for offensive thrusts, but it also bolstered Liverpool’s defence, as evidenced by his seven duels won and seven recoveries. This dual capability underscored his importance on both ends of the field.

Photo: IMAGO

Strategic Mastery and Adaptability

Trent’s gameplay against Spurs wasn’t just about sticking to the sidelines; it was a masterclass in adaptability and understanding the flow of the match. With three interceptions and creating two chances, his contribution was holistic, influencing the game’s tempo and dynamically adjusting his play style as needed. This performance not only highlighted his technical skills but also his game intelligence—attributes that Liverpool should consider central in future tactical setups. It maybe that the new manager wants him in a different position, but he seemed more effective in this one.

Impact on Team Dynamics

The synergy between Trent and Mohamed Salah has always been a cornerstone of Liverpool’s attacking strategy and it was great to see it flowing once again. By playing a more traditional right-back role, Trent provided consistent width and more direct support to Salah, enhancing Liverpool’s right flank’s effectiveness by allowing the Egyptian king to come inside closer to goal more often. This adjustment allowed Salah more space and better options, weaving through defences with the added threat of Trent’s crosses from deeper, wider positions and sometimes next to the bye line.

Daniel Sturridge Weighs In

Former Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge emphasised Trent’s value to the squad, stating, “I think they’ve got to do everything in their power to get him to sign on a dotted line, because you can’t lose a man of Trent, you know, he’s from the city.” This sentiment highlights not just the tactical but the emotional and cultural significance of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Liverpool, underscoring his role as both a player and a symbol of local pride.

Future Considerations Under Arne Slot

With Arne Slot at the helm, the strategic use of Trent in Liverpool’s lineup will be crucial. While his versatility as an inverted right-back has been beneficial at times, his recent showcase in a more traditional role presents a compelling case for keeping him on the flanks. This approach not only leverages his exceptional passing and defensive abilities but also stabilises the team’s structure, allowing players like Salah to maximise their offensive potential. As Liverpool continues to evolve under new management, the integration of Trent’s role will be key. If Slot can harness this balance, it could very well redefine Liverpool’s tactical identity. Slot seems to play with an inverted full back at Feyernoord and he could even see him as a midfielder. This next guise of Trent will be key for him.