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Alexander-Arnold Faces Criticism: Is Real Madrid’s Interest Distracting Him?

The Liverpool star’s performance against Manchester United has raised questions about his future.

By Sebastián Hernadez

Photo: Liverpool and Sky Sports social networks.
Photo: Liverpool and Sky Sports social networks.
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Alexander-Arnold, the 26-year-old English international, has come under fire following a lackluster performance in Liverpool's 2-2 draw against Manchester United at Anfield. The right-back, whose defensive duties were exposed during the match, was criticized for gifting the ball in the build-up to United's first goal and for allowing the visitors to thrive in his area of the pitch. Roy Keane, reflecting on the match, stated that Alexander-Arnold might be better suited to a club like Tranmere Rovers rather than a giant like Real Madrid, despite the links to the La Liga club.

The criticism of Alexander-Arnold has intensified amid reports that the player is distracted by interest from Real Madrid. With his contract nearing its end at Liverpool, speculation about a move has increased, and the player’s performance against Manchester United only fueled those concerns. As the January transfer window approaches, questions loom about whether Alexander-Arnold’s focus has been affected by the possibility of a move to Madrid.

Neville and Keane Weigh In on Alexander-Arnold’s Struggles

Gary Neville, a Manchester United legend, discussed the timing of Real Madrid’s interest in Alexander-Arnold, noting that the speculation could be affecting the player's performance. "If you have that kind of distraction before an important match, it’s not going to be easy," Neville said. He also highlighted the challenges of playing for Liverpool, a club of immense stature, and suggested that the possibility of a move could have caused anxiety for Alexander-Arnold. "You can imagine the noise from his family and agents, asking 'what’s going on?' That wouldn't have helped his focus," Neville added.

Meanwhile, Neville’s fellow pundit and former Liverpool icon, Jamie Carragher, shared his thoughts on the Real Madrid links, suggesting that Alexander-Arnold’s representatives may have invited the Spanish club’s interest to gain leverage. "We’re not naive enough to think that Real Madrid would bid for a player in January, knowing they could sign him for free in four months," Carragher remarked. He implied that the reported bids were likely part of a strategy to either secure a transfer or pressure Liverpool into offering a better contract.

Real Madrid’s Interest or a Tactic for Leverage?

As the transfer window approaches, the situation surrounding Alexander-Arnold remains unclear. The speculation surrounding a possible move to Real Madrid has only intensified following the criticisms of his recent performance, adding to the pressure on the Liverpool star. With his contract nearing its end, it remains to be seen whether Alexander-Arnold will stay at Liverpool or seek a fresh challenge at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

  • Alexander-Arnold was criticized for his performance in Liverpool’s 2-2 draw against Manchester United.
  • Roy Keane suggested the Liverpool right-back might be better suited to a club like Tranmere Rovers rather than Real Madrid.
  • Speculation about a move to Real Madrid has surfaced due to Alexander-Arnold's contract situation at Liverpool.
  • Gary Neville believes the timing of the Real Madrid interest could be affecting Alexander-Arnold’s focus.
  • Jamie Carragher suggested that Alexander-Arnold's representatives may have encouraged the Real Madrid links to gain leverage in contract negotiations.
  • The situation will be closely watched as the January transfer window approaches and decisions about Alexander-Arnold's future are made.

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