It seems the noise surrounding his Liverpool future and a possible move to Real Madrid is having a direct impact on Trent Alexander-Arnold's form. The 2-2 draw with Manchester United showed that the England defender is the weakest link in coach Arne Slot's squad.
The 26-year-old is out of contract at Anfield at the end of the season. Arnold is now free to talk to clubs outside England about a free transfer in the summer. Arnold's contract situation prompted Real to approach Liverpool last week about the possibility of a move for the player. However, the Reds have understandably rejected the Spanish side's offer.
While Arnold's attacking qualities remain vital for Liverpool, Slot has become increasingly concerned about the right-back's defensive work. Put simply, the England international was poor against Man United.
Twice in the first half, Dalot beat Arnold with relative ease. It was a similar story in the next 45 minutes, with both of United's goals coming from Arnold down the wing.
"We talk about how good Arnold is in attack, but today he defended, my God, it was child's play," legend Roy Keane said on Sky Sports.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk angrily shouted at Arnold for his lack of concentration. However, the Red Devils continued to exploit the 26-year-old defender's position, causing him to have a day to forget.
Arnold's performances have been so poor that, with Conor Bradley now fit and available after injury, Slot may want to make a change ahead of the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Tottenham.
In fact, Bradley came on for Arnold late in the draw with Man United. And if Arnold doesn't improve his form soon, Liverpool may have to reconsider when Real Madrid come calling.
With Slot, the Dutch strategist still stood up to defend his student against the wave of criticism: "Obviously Arnold has had some difficult moments, like us as a team. But it's not the first time he's had days like this.
I think the majority of the games he's played for Liverpool he's been very, very good. But days like this have happened before, and mostly against players of the quality of Man United."
