Joey Barton has strongly criticized Trent Alexander-Arnold’s display in Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Manchester United, claiming that the right-back was effectively “playing with 10 men” throughout the match.
Alexander-Arnold had a tough afternoon, with both of United’s goals coming down his flank.
He was also responsible for giving the ball away in the lead-up to United’s first goal and was booked later in the match before being substituted by Liverpool manager Arne Slot.
The performance raised questions about Alexander-Arnold’s focus, particularly after Real Madrid made a £20 million bid for him, which Liverpool rejected. The Spanish giants are reportedly considering making an improved offer.
Former Liverpool player Jamie Carragher was critical of Alexander-Arnold, suggesting he might have been distracted by the transfer speculation.
Gary Neville, ex-Manchester United defender, pointed out that his former club targeted Alexander-Arnold from the very start of the game.
Barton, echoing these sentiments, suggested that the England international was mentally already in Madrid, referring to him as “non-existent” and a “passenger” during the match.
He argued that if Liverpool had played with a fully engaged Alexander-Arnold for the entire game, they would have secured a win.
Barton also noted that Conor Bradley made more of an impact in his brief appearance than Alexander-Arnold did in the entire match.
Despite the criticism, Slot defended Alexander-Arnold, downplaying the idea that the player’s poor performance was due to the transfer rumors.
He acknowledged that Alexander-Arnold was not at his best but attributed some of the struggles to a lack of support from teammate Ryan Gravenberch, who failed to provide adequate cover.
Slot also praised the performances of Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes, suggesting they were more responsible for United’s success.
While Liverpool remains a top contender in the Premier League, Alexander-Arnold’s performance against United highlighted some of the challenges the team faces, with concerns over the right-back’s consistency and focus.