Trent Alexander-Arnold Explains Why His Toughest Game And Opponent Came Against Manchester United

Trent Alexander-Arnold has opened up about how Marcus Rashford and Manchester United gave him the toughest game of his fledgling career back in 2018.

Under Jurgen Klopp, the 21-year old has blossomed into arguably the best right-back in world football, assisting 12 goals in the Premier League last season as Liverpool narrowly missed out on the title to Manchester City.

He was also integral to the club's sixth European Cup triumph, notably displaying quick-thinking with his creative corner for Divock Origi's goal in the Champions League semi-final second leg thrashing of Barcelona at Anfield.

But a 2-1 defeat to United at Old Trafford in March 2018 proved to be a huge learning curve for the Reds' academy product, who says he underestimated Rashford - scorer of both goals in the game.

Image: PA

Speaking to The Athletic while looking back on 15 key moments in his Liverpool career, Alexander Arnold said: "Yeah, the toughest in terms of a direct opponent and someone getting on top of me in professional football.

"I'd say I underestimated him. It was a massive learning curve for me.

"It was something that I hated happening. As a Liverpool player it's probably the worst game of the season to perform like that. But when things like that happen you have to learn from them."

Image: PA

After experiencing a reality check, Alexander-Arnold's response was a mature one. He went to Liverpool academy director Alex Inglethorpe for advice and sought to ensure he didn't repeat that display.

"I massively respect his opinion and he's always been there for me, he still is now," he added.

"I found that growing up, he's someone who would always tell me the truth, no matter how much it would hurt me. That kind of honesty is exactly what you want from people. It's quite hard to come across in football because some people don't want to hurt your feelings.

"But Alex always tells me the truth. We talked about what had gone wrong and how I could improve and to try to make sure it didn't happen again.

Topics: Liverpool, Football News, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Football, Manchester United, England, Marcus Rashford

Josh Lawless

Josh is a writer who specialises in football and wrestling. He has been published by Curzon Ashton FC, Late Tackle, Manchester City FC, The Mirror, Read Man City and Manchester Evening News. He provides coverage of professional wrestling and has interviewed some of the biggest names in the field - including the first UK interview with The Hardy Boyz after their return to WWE. He has never sported a pair of Lonsdale Slip-ons, contrary to reports.

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