Trent Alexander-Arnold Faces Hostility as Conor Bradley Shines
As Conor Bradley impressed, Trent Alexander-Arnold received a harsh reminder of his lost standing, writes Phil McNulty.
Bradley’s Rise and Alexander-Arnold’s Fall
Conor Bradley, energized by the passionate support of Anfield, contrasted sharply with Trent Alexander-Arnold, the local talent who left Liverpool behind. Bradley was identified as Alexander-Arnold’s natural successor after the latter’s surprising move to Real Madrid. When Liverpool and Real Madrid met in the Champions League, the stage was set for a vivid comparison.
A Tale of Two Right-Backs
The 22-year-old Northern Ireland international became the embodiment of Liverpool’s performance reminiscent of their Premier League-winning peak, as Real Madrid was convincingly outplayed. Meanwhile, Alexander-Arnold, relegated to the bench, clearly felt the fans' changed sentiment towards him.
"It was a day of unrelenting ill-feeling aimed in Alexander-Arnold's direction, from his mural near Anfield being vandalised with the words 'Adios El Rata' before the game to the Anfield anger provoked by what many Liverpool fans regard as his betrayal."
Bradley’s Impact Against Vinicius Jr
Bradley’s outstanding performance neutralized the threat of the renowned Vinicius Jr, who was largely reduced to unconvincing theatrics in an attempt to counter the youngster’s physical dominance on the field.
"Bradley actually fuelled the fury and scorn aimed in Alexander-Arnold's direction with a magnificent display that reduced the formidable Vinicius Jr to a passenger, only able to offer theatrics – poor theatrics at that – in the face of the youngster's physical dominance."
Summary
Conor Bradley’s breakthrough performance highlighted Liverpool’s future, while Alexander-Arnold faced the painful consequences of his departure from the club he once embodied.
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