Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville found themselves in a heated debate over Liverpool’s approach to managing player contracts, especially after the news about Trent Alexander-Arnold made headlines this week.
Trent, who serves as the Reds’ vice-captain, seems to be on the verge of leaving his cherished club soon, with Real Madrid reportedly closing in on a deal to sign the 26-year-old on a free transfer once his current contract ends. Meanwhile, Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk are also nearing the ends of their contracts at Anfield, although there’s still some optimism that they might remain for an additional year or two.
Trent’s likely departure was a hot topic on the latest edition of Stick to Football, sparking a spirited discussion among Carragher, Neville, and Ian Wright.
Carragher, Neville, and Wright Debate Liverpool Contract Management
During the show, Wright questioned whether FSG was at fault for allowing the contracts of these essential players to almost lapse without renewal. Carragher, visibly frustrated, responded, "No, please, no, no, no. I’ve explained this. Stop it. I’ve explained this a million times."
Neville was quick to counterargue, expressing his disagreement with Carragher and retorting, "Liverpool are the only club who are allowed to run their players’ contracts down to zero, but they are still doing okay? Three of the best players in the world have contracts running out, but Liverpool are still doing a great job managing that? I’m sorry, I can’t accept that."
Carragher pushed back by suggesting that upheaval in Liverpool’s management, particularly with the departure of sporting director Michael Edwards in 2022, has played a role in these unresolved contract situations. He also hinted that Jurgen Klopp’s exit may have contributed to the current circumstances.
Liverpool Must Address Future Contract Challenges
Both sides of the argument have merit: while it’s true that instability within the boardroom isn’t helpful and resembles a game of hot potato, it’s astonishing that no one acted sooner to secure new contracts for three key players.
Trent’s expected free transfer departure stings enough for Liverpool fans, exacerbated by the worry that Salah and Van Dijk might also leave under similar circumstances.
If Liverpool sees all three stars depart without gaining any transfer fees, it would reflect poorly on the club’s management and diminish much of the good work done by Arne Slot since succeeding Klopp last year.
With Trent likely moving on, it’s crucial for Richard Hughes to ensure that the Dutch defender and Egyptian winger are secured with new agreements, at least temporarily. Doing so would buy Liverpool valuable time to scout and sign elite successors who can step in seamlessly when Salah and Van Dijk eventually move on.
While the current leadership at Anfield can’t undo past decisions, they can certainly learn from them and work proactively to prevent a similar predicament from arising in the future.
