Trent Alexander-Arnold, a 25-year-old defender, was discovered by manager Jurgen Klopp and has now earned a reputation as one of the best right-backs in the world.His passing with his right foot is first class and he has become an integral part of Liverpool’s attack.
He was also selected for England at EURO 2024, but his unfamiliar midfield position and poor overall team performances meant he was dropped from the starting line-up after the second group stage game against Denmark, losing his place to Kobbie Mainoo and Conor Gallagher.
Although manager Gareth Southgate did not make the most of the player, he did not make the same impact as he did at Anfield, and England also lost to Spain in the final, finishing with silverware for the second consecutive tournament.
After the tournament, Southgate announced his retirement from national coach. In the same year, Jurgen Klopp also handed over his position, resulting in a change of club and national team manager in a short space of time.
The German coach is highly regarded in the country, with his name on the shortlist for the next manager, but the Liverpool-born defender said he would be surprised ‘if’ he was appointed England manager.
“I enjoyed every moment I worked with him, we shared amazing memories, forged an amazing relationship, an amazing bond. So of course if that were to happen, we would pick up where we left off.”
“I would be surprised if he did take it. It was clear when he announced when he was leaving, the conversations I have had with him, everything on social media, he seems to be enjoying his time off, so it would be a huge surprise.”
The Mirror
Alexander-Arnold has had a remarkable career at Liverpool, but has been far from being in his element with the England national team.
Nevertheless, he praised former Southgate manager, who invariably led his team to the top of the table on the big stage, and revealed his memories of Klopp’s days in charge.
“I can only be thankful for every opportunity I have been given and the memories that we have shared. I do think Gareth is underrated. think the England manager’s job is one of the hardest jobs there is. You will always be judged, there is always speculation, people always have their opinions.”
“But the way he has driven the team and the environment for the players is there for everyone to see. There was unity, everyone came together as a team, but every manager does come in for criticism. The way he dealt with it was incredible and yet again, he got us to a final.”
“I agree 100 percent that when you are working with people you admire, you get to know them as a person, you want to do well for them. It is very intense in tournaments, you really get to know everyone around the camp.”
“And you saw what an amazing person Gareth is, he is an amazing man. It was the same on a day to day basis with Jurgen Klopp, you see how they handle themselves and others.”
“Can you ever be friends with your boss? You respect their expertise and decisions, but in the back of your mind, you always know they are the boss.”
The Mirror