When contemplating the possibility of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure from Liverpool, the question arises: Can Conor Bradley step into the shoes of the club’s beloved right-back? This analysis, spearheaded by Harry McMullen, delves into that very question.
As we examine some of Liverpool’s key players on the verge of contract expirations, it’s almost unthinkable to visualize someone like Virgil Van Dijk or Mohamed Salah leaving without a plan to fill the void. Surprisingly, though, when it comes to Alexander-Arnold, who is still very much in his prime, links to potential replacements at right-back are scarce.
Yet, here we are, pondering the future role of Conor Bradley. What has the young player done to earn the trust and possibly the mantle of Liverpool’s renowned No. 66?
The Context of Liverpool’s Team Dynamics
Building a successful football squad is an intricate puzzle. Some teams, like Brighton or Brentford, excel at finding the right players and constructing a coherent system, but often lack the elite edge for high-stakes clashes. Other clubs, such as Chelsea, boast plenty of talent, but their lack of cohesion leaves them vulnerable.
For Liverpool and their manager, Arne Slot, this season has been about striking the optimal balance. The squad is tailored to Slot’s more controlled style of play, complemented by world-class talents capable of game-changing performances.
Trent Alexander-Arnold exemplifies this, having long been considered a “game-breaker” due to his ability to turn the tide of a match single-handedly. This season, his approach has been more defensively robust, yet still impactful offensively. Slot has also adjusted his tactical vision to accommodate Alexander-Arnold’s unique skill set.
Understanding Arne Slot’s Tactical Blueprint
Under Slot’s direction, Liverpool aims to command the tempo. Whether it’s through strategic deep defending, counter-attacks, or an aggressive high press, the ultimate goal is to dominate possession and “kill teams with passes,” as Slot described in pre-season.
The full-backs play a significant role in executing this strategy. At Feyenoord, Slot relied heavily on Lutsharel Geertruida, who served as a versatile defender and was instrumental in controlling the ball in central areas. This approach disrupted opposition defenses, opening passing lanes or creating space when defenders stepped out.
Liverpool has largely prioritized tactical stability this season, using a back four to open paths for their wingers and allowing Alexander-Arnold to orchestrate attacking plays from deeper positions.
Where Does Conor Bradley Fit In?
Bradley’s adaptability was on full display during a notable 2-0 triumph over Real Madrid. Initially, Liverpool maintained their established formation to counter Madrid’s pressing strategies. During this phase, Bradley was instrumental in neutralizing counter-attacks, earning recognition for a standout tackle on Kylian Mbappe.
In the game’s second half, as Liverpool gained more control, Bradley was tasked with infiltrating the midfield, which led to his involvement in Liverpool’s best opportunity at the time, albeit his header was saved. His movement caught Madrid off guard, and shortly after, he set up a crucial goal for Alexis Mac Allister.
Bradley exhibits a playing style resonant with Slot’s vision, utilizing space and creating pivotal chances, which was further demonstrated in the Carabao Cup semi-final.
Nevertheless, Bradley’s progress hasn’t come without setbacks, notably an injury history that’s seen him miss significant game time over the last two seasons. This raises concerns about his reliability compared to the seasoned Alexander-Arnold, who also faced his share of injuries but provided more consistent availability.
Potential and Possibilities
Bradley’s evolution from a traditional Klopp-style full-back—known for energetic bursts down the flank—to a more tactically versatile player has been noteworthy. Both for Liverpool and his national team, his understanding of space and ball control has grown, fitting well into Slot’s tactical plans.
If Liverpool proceed without Alexander-Arnold’s remarkable passing prowess next season, they’ll need creative solutions to enable their forwards. Slot is keen on having full-backs with the flexibility of playing across defensive lines, a role Bradley has already begun to embrace on the right. Simultaneous interest in players like Milos Kerkez and Jorrel Hato suggests a similar desire for flexibility on the left flank.
While Bradley may not replicate Alexander-Arnold’s accolades, for Liverpool, him becoming the ‘first’ Conor Bradley might just be the key to a successful transition.
