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Jurgen Klopp makes Man Utd point about Trent Alexander-Arnold with Liverpool contract message

Jurgen Klopp manager of Liverpool embracing Trent Alexander-Arnold
-Credit:Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images


Jurgen Klopp came to the defence of Trent Alexander-Arnold after recent criticism of the Liverpool vice-captain. Out of contract in the summer, subject to a Real Madrid transfer and after a less than ideal performance against Manchester United in the Reds' most recent Premier League clash, the German was having none of the assertions his former player 'can't defend'.

Alexander-Arnold emerged from the Liverpool academy with perfect timing, handed his debut by Klopp in 2016 and then a year on breaking into the first team upon a Nathaniel Clyne injury. From there looking back was never an option, with all events of course leading to the present day situation.

Klopp's departure was just one matter that needed a swift resolution last term when arguably Alexander-Arnold's contract - along with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk's - would have taken top priority.

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"From my point of view I would love all three of them to extend their contracts. I don't know. They didn't tell me - we could text them now!"

That was Klopp's opinion, speaking on Tuesday for the first time publicly in an official manner since departing Anfield, having now taken up a new position as Red Bull's global head of soccer.

Midway through January and the vice captain is yet to put pen to paper on a renewed deal. Real Madrid were always reported to be hot on his tail and they made a shock approach hoping to do business six months early.

The answer was from Liverpool a resolute no, then the performance that followed was one to forget. A seemingly winnable home clash with rivals United ended 2-2, with the visitors doubling up on Alexander-Arnold for both goals, and he ended up hooked.

"Trent, yeah, he could finally learn defending? I can't believe you all discuss this still, it's so poor. So poor, really," Klopp said. Alexander-Arnold delivered a much-improved showing in the FA Cup tie against Accrington Stanley at the weekend, scoring in a comfortable win.

"I'm really happy that I'm a part of that, I've watched a few of the press conferences when he [Arne Slot] had to talk about it thinking 'oh my god, they still don't understand it!'

"And yes, he didn't play well against Manchester United but if we would make such a fuss of it when he plays well, like making a fuss of it when he doesn't play well, that would be really a cool planet."

Alexander-Arnold was one of those in tears on the final day of the 2023/24 campaign at Anfield, as post-match against Wolves Klopp was given his guard of honour and gave a parting speech. Their bond has always been strong and Klopp has expressed once again just how talented the player is, as owners FSG continue towards resolving this contract issue.