Liverpool took a significant step toward securing the Premier League title with a commanding 2-0 victory over Manchester City. However, despite the crucial win, Trent Alexander-Arnold will likely be relieved that his team emerged victorious, given his underwhelming performance at the Etihad Stadium. The English right-back has been a key player for Arne Slot’s squad throughout the season, delivering outstanding performances that have reportedly caught the attention of Spanish giants Real Madrid, who are eyeing a potential summer transfer.
The 26-year-old played an instrumental role in Liverpool’s second goal, which was scored by Dominik Szoboszlai in the 37th minute. Alexander-Arnold initiated the attacking move that led to the Hungarian midfielder doubling the visitors’ lead. Earlier in the match, Mohamed Salah had opened the scoring in the 14th minute, putting Liverpool on the path to a crucial win. This result propelled the Reds eleven points clear at the top of the Premier League table, reinforcing their title credentials.
Liverpool delivered an impressive performance that showcased the qualities of a championship-winning side. Their ability to secure a vital win away against the reigning champions demonstrated their resilience and tactical strength. While Slot would have been pleased with his team’s overall display, he might have some concerns regarding Alexander-Arnold’s defensive struggles in the game.
### Defensive Frailties Exposed
The ongoing debate about Alexander-Arnold’s defensive capabilities resurfaced following his display against Manchester City. The right-back’s ability with the ball at his feet is widely recognized, and many, including footballing legend Glenn Hoddle, regard him as one of the best playmakers in world football. However, his defensive vulnerabilities were glaring in this high-profile encounter, raising fresh concerns about his reliability at the back.
The defensive difficulties he encountered at the Etihad made him stand out for the wrong reasons. Alarmingly, he became the first player in Premier League history to be dribbled past more than ten times in a single match since the 2015-16 season. This statistic highlights a significant weakness, especially in a match of such importance.
Alexander-Arnold’s struggles were evident throughout the game. He emerged as Liverpool’s weakest performer, managing to win only three out of 14 duels—two out of 13 ground duels and a single aerial duel. Additionally, he was wasteful in possession, losing the ball 17 times. Manchester City’s Jeremy Doku exploited his defensive frailties, causing him significant problems throughout the match. This subpar display was reminiscent of his shaky performance against Manchester United in January, where Liverpool conceded twice in a 2-2 draw.
### Liverpool Fans React to Darwin Núñez
Following Liverpool’s 2-0 triumph over Manchester City, the club’s supporters directed attention toward Uruguayan striker Darwin Núñez. Although the article does not delve into the specific nature of fan reactions, it is clear that his performance or contribution in the game sparked discussions among the Liverpool faithful.
### Other Related News
Liverpool’s victory over City was accompanied by several notable records, particularly for Mohamed Salah, who continues to etch his name in the club’s history. Additionally, football pundit Alan Shearer has made predictions regarding key upcoming fixtures, including those related to the Premier League title race and the Champions League. Meanwhile, speculation continues about Arne Slot’s impact at Liverpool and his potential influence on the team’s future success.
Overall, while Liverpool’s win over Manchester City strengthened their grip on the Premier League title, concerns remain over Alexander-Arnold’s defensive inconsistencies. His playmaking skills remain a crucial asset, but his struggles at the back could pose problems in critical matches moving forward.
