Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp talks about Trent Alexander-Arnold and his positioning vs Arsenal

Trent Alexander-Arnold played usually upwards of the field from where he usually does in Liverpool FC’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday. Amid lots of criticism for his defensive abilities, Trent played on the right side of midfield for a significant period of time in the game, and Liverpool gaffer Jurgen Klopp spoke about the same as well.

Playing more inside rather than wide with Ibrahima Konate providing the defensive cover for him, gave the Scouser a bit more freedom on the ball than he would usually get. Although he did not completely phase into the midfield role, it was refreshing to see his creative output from much closer.

Trent, apart from the odd dribble past, was solid in attacking prowess as he gave the assist to Roberto Firmino for the Brazilian to put it past Aaron Ramsdale. Even though the Reds had plenty of chances towards the end of the game, it was unfortunate that we could not get the win. Here is his heat map via WhoScored.

Here is what Klopp said on Trent’s positioning via the club’s official website:

“Yeah, it’s now not the first time. We did that before, maybe it was not that obvious, but we did that before that we put Trent inside. In the build-up Trent played more inside, double No.6, that’s how it is. He needs to get used to it obviously, I would say it’s a big step to do that in a game against Arsenal.”

“It opened up different opportunities for us, if you watch it back you will see that after we learned to use it… Hendo was not wide, stayed inside and then we could pass down to Mo and Mo kept the ball really well today, first half already where we could go from there. So I thought he did well. It was not the first time but not for a while and that is why I am fine with how he executed it.” 

Is Trent in midfield a long-term fix?

Klopp’s decision to play Alexander-Arnold in midfield was also a tactical move. Liverpool had a lot of possession in the game, and Klopp wanted to take advantage of that by fielding a more attacking lineup. Alexander-Arnold’s presence in midfield allowed Liverpool to overload the right flank, and he was able to link up well with the other attackers.

In midfield, he obviously has more freedom to move forward and contribute to Liverpool’s attack. This was evident in the game against Arsenal, as Alexander-Arnold was able to get forward and create numerous chances for his teammates.

It is also worth noting that Alexander-Arnold’s performance in midfield against Arsenal was not a one-off. He has played in midfield before during his academy days, and the player certainly did not look out of place in that role.

This could certainly mean that Klopp will look to play him in midfield more often in the future, especially in games where Liverpool need to be more attacking against low-block teams.

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Klopp’s tactical flexibility and willingness to make bold moves even though it is so late in the season could be key to Liverpool’s success this season, and Alexander-Arnold’s versatility will be a huge asset as Liverpool looks to compete on multiple fronts.