Understanding the Future of Liverpool’s Right-Back Position
Trent Alexander-Arnold has long been celebrated as one of the Premier League’s premier full-backs, contributing significantly to Liverpool’s successes over recent years. However, as rumors swirl about his potential move to Real Madrid, the question arises: how will Liverpool replace such a pivotal player? The club appears to be targeting Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong, a player whose style diverges significantly from that of Alexander-Arnold.
Evaluating Playing Styles: Alexander-Arnold vs. Frimpong
The contrasting playing styles of Alexander-Arnold and Frimpong highlight the challenges Liverpool faces in finding a fitting replacement. While Alexander-Arnold’s game is characterized by his exceptional passing range and ability to orchestrate play from the back, contributing 18 goals and 64 assists, Frimpong adopts a more direct approach. His strength lies in his dribbling and attacking runs, as he often seeks to bypass defenders rather than setting up plays from deeper positions.
Frimpong, a product of Manchester City’s youth academy, is frequently deployed as a wing-back or right-winger rather than a traditional full-back. This positional difference affects how both players engage in matches. For instance, Frimpong’s dribbling statistics far exceed those of Alexander-Arnold, as he has recorded more than double the number of successful dribbles this season. However, he has managed less than half the number of passes, indicating a more aggressive and forward-focused style.
The data reflects this divergence. Touch maps reveal that while Alexander-Arnold is involved both defensively and offensively along the right touchline, Frimpong tends to operate primarily in the final third, showcasing his attacking intent. His ability to threaten defenses has not gone unnoticed, with Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman praising his speed and capacity to pressure opponents effectively.
Defensive Concerns: Are They Justified?
Despite their distinct advantages, both players face scrutiny, particularly regarding their defensive capabilities. Alexander-Arnold has often been criticized for his defensive positioning and has faced harsh evaluations from pundits such as Roy Keane, who described his defending as “schoolboy.” Questions surrounding Frimpong’s defensive skills arise as well, given that he has been predominantly utilized in attacking roles. His involvement in defensive actions is noticeably lower, with only 22% of his touches occurring in his own half this season.
Historically, Liverpool’s defensive vulnerabilities have raised alarms, especially with Alexander-Arnold’s perceived weaknesses. If Frimpong is to step into the right-back role, Liverpool’s coaching staff, led by Arne Slot, may need to adopt a more robust defensive system, possibly transitioning to a back three to afford Frimpong the freedom to attack without compromising defensive solidity.
The Role of Conor Bradley
With Conor Bradley already in the Liverpool setup, some fans question the necessity of acquiring Frimpong. Bradley, only 21, has shown promise in covering for Alexander-Arnold during his injury spells but requires more consistent playing time to develop further. Slot has expressed confidence in Bradley but recognizes the importance of not over-relying on a young player still finding his footing.
Bradley has made 17 league appearances this season, yet his limited starting opportunities highlight the need for more experience in that position. His performance against high-caliber teams like Real Madrid showcased his potential, but his fitness and readiness for a starting role remain areas for improvement.
The Road Ahead for Liverpool
As Liverpool navigates the potential sale of Trent Alexander-Arnold, the club faces the dual challenge of replacing a key player while addressing existing defensive concerns. The choice between Frimpong and a more youth-oriented approach with Bradley will ultimately shape Liverpool’s tactical identity moving forward.
The club’s decision-makers will need to weigh the immediate impact of a seasoned player like Frimpong against the long-term development of young talents like Bradley. Regardless of the path chosen, Liverpool’s right-back position will be pivotal to their tactical evolution in the forthcoming seasons.