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Trent Alexander-Arnold’s rise to the top of world football as Liverpool’s right back is nothing short of remarkable. Accounting for his youth, the fact that he’d been projected at a different position, and doing all of that at a level that’s placed him as arguably the single best at his position in the entire world is no small feat.
Among the many attributes possessed by the talented Scouser - the irrepressible drive, fantastic vision, and the most accurate foot in all of soccer since David Beckham - is a mindset that is both intensely passionate, but deeply grounded. One that acknowledges the weight of being a club icon as a local lad, while also feeling a sense of purpose in that very particular calling. It’s one of the many reasons I’ve grown to adopt him as one of my favorite players.
Jurgen Klopp also clearly appreciates that balanced mindset. When speaking to the press about TAA - who made his Premier League debut against Manchester United at Old Trafford 3 years ago - Klopp hit on that special mindset and on the support network around him that makes TAA so unique.
“Apart from injuries, I can’t see anything that can stop him because his attitude and his private background is just so good. Passionate yes, very, but calm as well. It’s a very, very good basis his family created for him – he has a very close relationship to them, which is good. They keep him grounded; I am not sure he needs it, but if he would start flying then I know exactly who would get him back. When you are a talented footballer and you have an outstanding attitude, if you love the game as much as he loves the game, and you have the background he has, then it’s pretty likely you will have a proper career. A lot of good things came together and now we have this kind of player – long, long, long may it continue.”
Trent is indeed a very special player. A local lad developed within the club’s structure. One who has been a Red forever. And one that might some day don the armband. Here’s hoping that life opens up and allows for that wonderful possibility to come true for young Trent Alexander-Arnold.