Arsenal star Bukayo Saka claimed that his English teammate and Liverpool vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold could become a future football manager

Bukayo Saka believes that his English teammate and Liverpool vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold has the potential to become the football manager. Saka and Trent are currently competing for England in the Euro 2024 competition, riddled with controversial commentary about the Englishman.

England suffered two dull draws against Denmark and Slovenia and a close victory against Serbia to reach the last 16. They play Slovakia next with many people sceptical about England’s chances due to their poor philosophy and tactical playing style.

Meanwhile, Trent suffered the brunt of the English media’s criticism as he played in the central midfield alongside Declan Rice. Many people who support Trent argue that England uses him as a scapegoat for their persistent shortcomings and dullness.

Saka told Lions Den Unlocked that Trent loves football and has the potential to be the manager. He said:

“Do you know who comes to mind? Trent [Alexander-Arnold]. I think he could be a gaffer. He loves the game. I could see it potentially.”

Liverpool fans are rightfully unhappy with certain recurring lines like “Trent’s midfield experiment” used by several pundits and social media. They witnessed the 25-year-old’s performance from midfield as a quarterback in several comeback victories last season under Jurgen Klopp.

A lot of amateurs have argued that Trent should only play as a right-back while citing Klopp’s old interview. Their argument ignores that Klopp shifted Trent to the inverted fullback role two seasons ago, playing him centrally last season.

The biggest barrier to Trent’s full transition to the midfield role is the lack of right-back options at Liverpool. The Reds operate under a restricted budget and that stops them from spending big unless it is necessary.

However, things could change drastically as Conor Bradley has stamped his claim at the right-back role last season. Meanwhile, England benched Trent in the last game and they are potentially playing Kobbie Mainoo against Slovakia in the last 16.

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Mainoo delivered a mediocre performance in the second half of the last game barring a few eye-catching touches. However, the Manchester United midfielder has the media support the polar opposite of what Trent has suffered throughout this tournament.

Saka’s comment highlights the level of respect Trent has attained from his English camp despite the criticism. The 25-year-old dictated tempo in many games, showcasing his maturity and earning the vice-captaincy by adopting a more nuanced approach beyond just attack-minded play.