Liverpool manager Arne Slot has reaffirmed Trent Alexander-Arnold’s commitment to the club despite ongoing speculation linking the England right-back with a move to Real Madrid.
Alexander-Arnold, whose contract expires this summer, has reportedly attracted interest from the Spanish giants. BBC sources revealed that Real Madrid made an inquiry about signing the 26-year-old in January, but Liverpool rejected the approach.
Despite these developments, Slot expressed confidence in Alexander-Arnold’s focus and confirmed his inclusion in the starting lineup for Liverpool’s upcoming clash against Manchester United this weekend.
“I can tell you that he’s playing on Sunday and, hopefully, he’ll bring the same performances as he’s brought in the last half year,” Slot said.
“Everybody saw how great a first half of the season he had, how much he is here, and how much he wants to win here. I see him on the training ground every day. He is fully committed to us, and he will play on Sunday.”
Speculation Over Other Key Players
Alexander-Arnold isn’t the only Liverpool player whose future has come under scrutiny. Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk are also nearing the end of their contracts, fueling speculation about their next moves.
Slot dismissed concerns that transfer rumors might destabilize his squad, emphasizing the mental resilience required at a club of Liverpool’s stature.
“If it would destabilize players at Liverpool if other people talk about them, then we would really have a problem,” he said.
“When you play at one of the biggest clubs in the world, everybody always talks about you, sometimes in relation to other clubs. That happens so many times for our players.
“There were some talks about our players also in the last six months, and I don’t think that destabilized them at all.”
Focus on Manchester United
Slot’s reassurances come ahead of a critical Premier League match against arch-rivals Manchester United. Liverpool will look to build on Alexander-Arnold’s strong form as they aim to maintain their momentum in the race for a top-four finish.
While contract negotiations remain unresolved, Slot’s confidence in his players’ focus suggests Liverpool is determined to keep distractions off the pitch.