Slot: Alexander-Arnold Earned His Place in Liverpool Title Celebration

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has emphasized that Trent Alexander-Arnold should be included in the club’s upcoming Premier League title celebrations, despite voicing disappointment over the defender’s training performances earlier in the season. His remarks come as the club prepares to receive the league trophy this Sunday following their final match of the campaign against Crystal Palace.

Alexander-Arnold, who confirmed his decision to leave Liverpool earlier this month, is widely expected to move to Spanish giants Real Madrid. His recent appearances have drawn mixed reactions from fans, with notable booing heard when he came off the bench in Liverpool’s recent 2-2 draw against Arsenal at Anfield. The 26-year-old did not feature in the subsequent 3-2 defeat at Brighton.

Undecided Role in Title Ceremony

With celebrations for Liverpool’s first league title in four years set to take place this weekend, Slot addressed questions about the extent of Alexander-Arnold’s involvement in the festivities. The Dutch manager said no final decision had been made but highlighted the importance of making the occasion a shared moment of joy.

Slot acknowledged the historic nature of the achievement, noting that supporters had been waiting 35 years for such a moment. While Liverpool did win the title in 2020, the presentation then took place in an empty stadium due to pandemic restrictions.

He praised the atmosphere following the club’s title-sealing victory over Tottenham earlier in the campaign and expressed his hope that Sunday’s celebration would create another lasting memory. Slot insisted that everyone who contributed to the season, including Alexander-Arnold, should be present to mark the milestone.

Mixed Reflections on Alexander-Arnold’s Season

While Slot acknowledged Alexander-Arnold’s contributions to the team’s overall success and his role in Liverpool’s recent years of strong performances, he did not shy away from discussing early concerns about the player’s attitude in training.

Slot revealed that in the initial weeks of the season, he felt the right-back’s training efforts did not meet expectations. He described the performance as lacking full commitment at times and explained that he addressed the issue directly with the player. Slot emphasized that although the public often critiques Alexander-Arnold’s defensive ability, he believes the player is more capable than those assessments suggest—when he is fully focused.

He elaborated that Alexander-Arnold’s physical attributes, including speed and agility, combined with a strong mentality, give him the tools to be a top defender. However, Slot stressed the importance of consistency, highlighting that in football, evaluations often focus more on a few poor displays than a season’s worth of strong performances.

Farewell Under Scrutiny

Slot hinted that Alexander-Arnold’s departure may serve as a symbolic moment, possibly even benefitting Xabi Alonso, who is rumored to be taking over at Real Madrid. Despite the critique, Slot reiterated that Alexander-Arnold has played a key role in the club’s successful campaign and is deserving of a proper send-off as Liverpool prepares to lift the trophy.

As Liverpool conclude a title-winning season, the occasion promises both celebration and reflection, with Alexander-Arnold’s legacy at Anfield poised to enter a new chapter.