Unveiling Trent Alexander-Arnold's Midfield Mastery: The Art of Dictating Tempo in Liverpool's Ranks

Trent Alexander-Arnold's arrival as a substitute in the Tottenham match was somewhat overshadowed amidst all the drama of the day. However, the revival of Liverpool's full-back turned midfielder, who has consistently been the most innovative defender in the nation, could have a profound impact on their season. Jurgen Klopp redefined Alexander-Arnold's position in April, placing him in a hybrid role against Arsenal. He now operates as a central midfielder when in possession, and he thoroughly enjoys it.

Speaking to We at Anfield, in the week that he turns 25 years old, Alexander-Arnold reflects on the tactical journey he has gone through and expresses his excitement about this change. "It opens up numerous possibilities and alternatives for me when I have possession of the ball," he says.

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Trent Alexander-Arnold's dramatically changing heatmap for Liverpool last season

Initially, there was a slight awkwardness as Liverpool found themselves trailing by two goals against the current Premier League leaders that afternoon. However, the stark contrast between the first and second half against Arsenal became evident, and this marked a turning point for Liverpool, propelling them forward. It is worth noting that Liverpool has remained unbeaten when he assumes this role.

Alexander-Arnold emphasizes that he already had a foundation in midfield. "I knew how to receive and pass the ball. It was just about finding the right system that maximized everyone's abilities."

However, there are noticeable changes. "Significant differences," he asserts. "On the right side of the pitch, you have limited options since you are often near the touchline and unable to pass to the right. In the middle, you have the freedom to pass in both directions."

In September's victory against Aston Villa, we observed a notable improvement in delivering the ball accurately to Mohamed Salah through the right channel, resulting in the second goal. This has expanded the passing possibilities for Salah on the right side.

However, it is also worth mentioning that there are still impressive passes being made on the left side of the field, particularly benefiting Luis Diaz. Additionally, the dynamic between Salah and Andy Robertson has experienced a slight change, as they now connect through shorter passes as opposed to long-range switches of play. As a result, Salah has become an integral part of our team's overall strategy and plays a central role in our success.

"It is considerably more connected," declares Alexander-Arnold. "I possess the ability to influence games within that realm as well. You are granted further opportunities to receive the ball and govern the pace, determining the moments and locations of our attacks. The mere sensation of commanding games is unparalleled."

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Trent Alexander-Arnold is able to bypass lots of defenders with his passing

In certain aspects, he seems to be perfectly suited for this position. His exceptional vision enables him to identify and execute long passes with precision. Among all players, only Kieran Trippier has consistently made more passes that bypass six or more defenders than Alexander-Arnold.

The distinguishing factor, however, is that the majority of players high on this list are goalkeepers and defenders, executing these passes from a deep position. In contrast, Alexander-Arnold accomplishes this feat closer to the opposition's goal. Ever since his shift in role, he has delivered more through balls than any other player in the Premier League.

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Trent Alexander-Arnold has been leading in the number of through balls made since his shift. However, the game is no longer solely within his view, presenting a new challenge. On the positive side, he now has more passing options available. On the other hand, there are now more angles from which he can be dispossessed, making it a tricky situation. This situation demands his 360-degree vision. "It was a significant change, particularly in the beginning," he elaborates.

As a full-back, you can receive the ball without constantly checking your shoulders, as there is no chance of someone approaching you from behind. However, in the midfield, the situation changes entirely. Players surround you from all directions, actively pressing and challenging you in ways you have never experienced before.

The excitement lies not only in my abilities to pass and my pass origins; it also extends to the methods of retrieving the ball, being aware of my surroundings, comprehending the situation, inquiring, seeking solutions, assimilating knowledge, and striving to optimize the system.

This applies universally. The requirements and expectations placed on other players have also undergone significant changes due to my role and the implementation of this new system. It is not solely my responsibility. The success of the system depends on the collective effort of everyone involved.

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Trent Alexander-Arnold consistently generates opportunities not only from the wide areas but also from deeper positions.

Significantly, despite occasionally being utilized as a pure midfielder in pre-season, Alexander-Arnold remains Liverpool's right-back when they don't have possession. This presents a challenge as his versatile position requires unwavering focus.

Klopp's desire for a more measured game is explained by Alexander-Arnold. According to him, the team's system relies on having control of the game and possession of the ball. This allows for greater adaptability and movement among the players. However, when the game becomes more chaotic, resembling a basketball match, and Alexander-Arnold is constantly required to move wide and then inside every time the ball is won or lost, it ultimately results in vulnerability due to the nature of the system. This is what the team has discovered.

According to him, it has been a period of learning that he has always welcomed. Deep down, he is still the typical young man from Liverpool whose dream has recently been fulfilled, as seen in the nearby Sybil Road mural. The determination to maintain his dream alive remains steadfast.

He briefly addresses the Trent's Vision project, a collaborative effort with ophthalmologist Dr. Daniel Laby, aimed at enhancing his awareness. "It's all about the small margins. As an individual, you must discover something that sets you apart from others," he explains.

The margins are satisfactory. Although it may not have a significant impact on a daily basis, it could potentially be the determining factor in one or two games this season. This is because I have observed passes and successfully executed them due to the additional effort I have put in during training sessions.

Within the group, there are like-minded individuals who possess a similar mindset, including the recent additions to the team. "They have fully embraced our objectives and have demonstrated a strong desire to achieve the same goals." This is especially evident in Dominik Szoboszlai.

Liverpool fans on social media have observed a growing bond between the two players, acknowledged by Alexander-Arnold. "We have similar thoughts and attitudes." However, he firmly denies the idea that they will now be taking free-kicks together.

"To be honest, I have spoken to him about it and I let him know that he is no longer on free-kick duty," he dryly responds. "He had his opportunity. He definitely has the skill, but during the West Ham game, he had two shots that hit the wall. I believe he may be taken off free-kicks." Even friendship has its boundaries.

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The potential of this new Liverpool team is still uncertain, but their goal, both as individuals and as a team, is clear: to win the league. The upcoming away match against Brighton on Sunday will pose a challenge, especially as Liverpool aims to find the necessary control.

"They excel in it," he further comments.

Controlling the game in that particular setting is quite challenging, as only a few teams possess the ability to do so. Therefore, when we do get the chance, it is crucial to execute it effectively and establish a strong defensive setup to prevent the opposition from dominating the game as much as they desire. With Trent Alexander-Arnold's return and his new hybrid role, Liverpool can once again feel confident about their prospects.