Liverpool’s Struggles Without Trent Alexander-Arnold
Liverpool’s recent dip in form has sparked widespread debate among fans and analysts. While injuries, tactical shifts, and inconsistent performances have all played a part, one absence stands out: Trent Alexander-Arnold. The star right-back, sidelined with a knee injury since January, has left a glaring void in Jürgen Klopp’s squad.
The Unique Role of Trent Alexander-Arnold
Alexander-Arnold is far more than a traditional defender. His ability to transition seamlessly from defense to attack, deliver pinpoint crosses, and orchestrate set-pieces has made him a cornerstone of Liverpool’s success. His creativity and vision have been crucial to the team’s fluid attacking play, and his absence has exposed their over-reliance on his unique skill set.
The Impact on Liverpool’s Attack
Since Alexander-Arnold’s injury, Liverpool’s attacking output has noticeably declined. In the 20 Premier League games before his injury, the team averaged 2.1 goals per game. In the six matches since, that figure has dropped to 1.5. Expected goals (xG) have also fallen, highlighting a broader issue with chance creation.
Defensive Vulnerabilities Without Alexander-Arnold
While Alexander-Arnold is often criticized for defensive lapses, his understanding of Klopp’s system and ability to read the game have been vital. His absence has left the right flank exposed, as seen in Liverpool’s 3-1 defeat to Arsenal, where the Gunners relentlessly targeted the space left by Conor Bradley’s forward runs.
Klopp’s Tactical Adjustments
Klopp has experimented with tactical changes to mitigate Alexander-Arnold’s absence. Joe Gomez has been deployed as a more defensive right-back, while a back-three formation with wing-backs has also been tested. However, these adjustments have yet to fully compensate for the loss of Alexander-Arnold’s creativity and influence.
The Timing of the Injury
Alexander-Arnold’s injury comes at a critical juncture in the Premier League title race. Liverpool’s slip to third place, despite having a game in hand, underscores the significance of his absence. While the return of Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai has provided a boost, Alexander-Arnold’s absence remains a major concern.
A Broader Question for Liverpool
Alexander-Arnold’s absence raises a crucial question: Has Liverpool become too reliant on one player? His brilliance is undeniable, but his injury highlights the need for greater squad depth and tactical flexibility.
The Road Ahead
As Liverpool fans await Alexander-Arnold’s return, the team must find ways to bridge the gap in his absence. Whether they can reignite their title challenge will depend on their ability to adapt and integrate him effectively upon his return.
For now, one thing is clear: Liverpool are not the same without Trent Alexander-Arnold, and his return cannot come soon enough.
