Anfield Index
·26 janvier 2025
Anfield Index
·26 janvier 2025
Liverpool’s relentless march in the Premier League continued with a 4-1 dismantling of Ipswich Town at Anfield. With Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo at the heart of the attacking display, Arne Slot’s side reinforced their position at the top of the table. Yet, beyond the goals and dominance, it was Trent Alexander-Arnold’s masterful delivery that once again stole the spotlight, drawing praise from footballing greats, including Michael Owen and Shaun Wright-Phillips.
Trent Alexander-Arnold has long been a player defined by his passing range, vision, and technical quality. Against Ipswich, he once again showcased why he is considered one of the finest playmakers in the game, regardless of position. His pinpoint assist for Cody Gakpo’s goal was the highlight of the evening, prompting Michael Owen to declare: “There’s no one like him, certainly not in his position in the world. He’s a special talent.”
Owen’s praise is far from hyperbolic. The right-back’s ability to pick out passes with laser-like precision makes him a unique figure in world football. Comparisons with midfield maestros are not unwarranted, as Denis Irwin recently likened Alexander-Arnold’s crossing ability to that of David Beckham.
Michael Owen wasn’t alone in his admiration. Shaun Wright-Phillips, analysing the game on Premier League Productions, was equally effusive in his praise of Alexander-Arnold’s contribution. Reflecting on the right-back’s assist for Gakpo, he said “What about this delivery from Trent, it’s a dream for strikers, as soon as he gets it out of his feet you just know where the ball’s going to go.”
Photo: IMAGO
It is this predictability— in the best possible sense— that makes Alexander-Arnold such an asset to Liverpool’s attacking play. His ability to read the game, deliver inch-perfect passes, and create goal-scoring chances with unerring accuracy elevates Liverpool’s system under Slot.
While Liverpool fans have grown accustomed to Alexander-Arnold’s brilliance, uncertainty surrounds his future. Reports linking him with Real Madrid have unsettled the Anfield faithful, with speculation that the full-back could be tempted by a move to Spain when his contract expires.
The idea of losing a player so integral to Liverpool’s modern era is difficult to process. At just 26, Alexander-Arnold is in the prime of his career, and under Slot’s management, he continues to evolve, refining his defensive game while maintaining his offensive prowess.
While Alexander-Arnold’s delivery was a defining moment, Cody Gakpo’s performance also drew acclaim. The Dutch international benefitted from elite service, with Claude Makelele highlighting his movement and finishing ability. For Gakpo, playing alongside a full-back with such an elite passing range is a striker’s dream.
Liverpool’s performance against Ipswich was a reminder of their firepower, but more importantly, it reinforced why Alexander-Arnold remains the beating heart of their creative play. His passing is unrivalled, his impact undeniable, and his future at Anfield now an unavoidable topic of discussion.