Liverpool’s ability to replace departing legends has long been part of the club’s identity. From Kevin Keegan to Mario Balotelli, the club has a knack for creating new heroes, and the latest in line could be 21-year-old Conor Bradley, who is poised to take over the right-back position following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s impending departure.
The young Northern Irishman has shown flashes of potential that have already made him a favorite at Anfield, but he now faces the monumental task of filling the massive shoes left by Alexander-Arnold, a key player for the club. While Bradley has been excellent when called upon, his progress has been hampered by injuries, and many question whether he can handle the rigors of playing consistently in the Premier League.
Arne Slot, Liverpool’s manager, has lavished praise on Bradley, comparing him to Achraf Hakimi of PSG for his relentless work rate. Slot described Bradley as one of the most energetic players on the pitch, noting that his ability to cover ground is extraordinary. However, the 26-year-old Hakimi is much more accustomed to playing week in and week out, which is something Bradley must prove he can do.
“Conor has such an intense playing style. They all run a lot, but Conor is in his own league when it comes to running a lot, comparable maybe with Achraf Hakimi at PSG,” Slot said. “He is everywhere during the game.”
Bradley’s biggest hurdle has been his fitness. Despite his talent, he has struggled with injuries that have prevented him from securing a regular starting role. Slot emphasized that if Bradley can stay fit and avoid setbacks, he will be the one to fill Alexander-Arnold’s shoes.
“He needs time, Conor, and a good program to keep him fit,” Slot said. “If Conor is going to be the regular starter next season, that could maybe help him as well.”
As Alexander-Arnold prepares to leave Liverpool, Bradley is expected to start in the upcoming match against Arsenal, where the Anfield crowd will undoubtedly show their support for the young full-back. While there may be mixed feelings about Alexander-Arnold’s departure, Slot believes that Bradley’s potential can help ease the transition.
“We all see the potential, but Conor needs to be available every week. That’s the first step he has to take next season,” Slot added.
Despite the comparisons with Alexander-Arnold, Slot emphasized that Bradley is a different type of player. While Alexander-Arnold has become known for his creativity and passing range, Bradley is more of an orthodox full-back, relying on his pace and defensive tenacity. The key now is for Bradley to develop into a consistent performer for Liverpool.
“Let’s not compare him with Trent now already. They are two different types in my opinion,” Slot explained.
As Liverpool fans prepare for Alexander-Arnold’s departure, there’s hope that Bradley can become the next long-term solution at right-back, carrying the torch for the club and living up to the high expectations set by his predecessor. But with fitness being a major concern, the upcoming season will be crucial for his development.
Slot on Alexander-Arnold’s Departure
Arne Slot also addressed Trent Alexander-Arnold’s decision to leave the club, acknowledging the disappointment felt by both fans and the team. He stressed that while it’s understandable that some fans may be upset, it’s important to focus on the remaining games and the players who will continue to wear the Liverpool shirt.
“I think we are all disappointed, but Trent is the first one also who said that he would prefer us, as a team and as a club, not to be too much distracted by this announcement,” Slot said.
Slot emphasized that while Alexander-Arnold’s departure is a blow, Liverpool’s history suggests that the next great player will always step up to fill the void.
“When a very good player leaves, the next very good player will step up, and that’s probably what’s going to happen now again as well,” Slot concluded.
This week’s match against Arsenal will be a key moment for Liverpool as they bid farewell to one of their best-ever full-backs while looking to the future with Bradley.
