Van Dijk defends Alexander-Arnold: “He was not affected by speculation”
The English defender had a poor performance in the clash with Manchester United, but the centre-back says it had nothing to do with a possible exit to Real Madrid
Trent Alexander-Arnold was one of the most criticised players in the draw between Liverpool and Manchester United . 54% of the Red Devils ‘ attacks , including the two that resulted in goals, were from the England international, who also lost the ball on 27 occasions. The poor performance comes at a time when the right-back has entered the final six months of his contract and a move to Real Madrid is a possibility. Virgil van Dijk , the Reds’ captain, played down this speculation.
“It hasn’t affected him at all, it seems fine to me. Trent has people around him, his family and we are behind him. He wants to play at his best, just like all of us. That’s the main focus,” said the Dutchman, who, like Salah , is in the same situation as Alexander-Arnold .
Liverpool manager Arne Slot also addressed the player’s performance, but instead of criticising him, he preferred to praise Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot , who were very active on the left side of the Red Devils ‘ attack .
