One of the more watched right-back positions in the Premier League over recent years. Trent Alexander-Arnold built his name on attacking flair, pinpoint crosses, and a special connection with the fans at Anfield. At the moment that his end is just about in sight, Conor Bradley steps into the light. He’s helping Liverpool into the next chapter in doing so.
Trent Alexander Arnold Exit
Immediately after Alexander-Arnold announced he would be leaving at the end of the 2024-25 season, many questions were asked. Who replaces him? Conor Bradley is a young full-back from Northern Ireland who has signed an extension until 2029 with Liverpool. Thus, signaling very clearly that the club trusts him for one main role.
Conor Bradley
Bradley’s rise is marked not just by the contract decisions but also by the performances themselves. Defensively, Bradley’s numbers do impress in comparison to Alexander-Arnold, averaging more tackles per 90 minutes (3.2 vs. 2.1) and considerably more ground duels per 90 minutes (6.7 vs. 3.6). What that shows is his willingness to do the hard work, track back, win challenges, defend his flank. One game in which Bradley came on and won 3/3 ground duels inside only 11 minutes, completed a dribble, and had a shot on target-with Alexander-Arnold in a larger sample failing in those categories-is one example. That kind of traits, what Liverpool expect from the right-back role, are less about being a creator.
Coach’s Perspective
Liverpool manager Arne Slot acknowledged the transfer as well. He said Bradley needs to be playing many matches in a row next, but for as long as Alexander-Arnold stays with the club, that hasn’t happened yet. In short, Bradley may be the future, but consistency and full fitness are still to be proven.
Injuries have indeed been one of the concerns: Bradley missed 19 games in 2024-25 owing to hamstring issues among others. That reality tempers the enthusiasm: while Bradley offers something new, Liverpool must make sure he can stay fit and deliver week-in, week-out.
Why is Bradley’s emergence important in the “post-Alexander-Arnold period”?
Continuity: Liverpool would not want their defense to suddenly drop. Bradley gives them a great base to work from.
Adaptation: Alexander-Arnold was different, tremendous to attack with and less strong when defending. Analysts note Bradley doesn’t replicate all of TAA’s creative output just yet, but he brings other strong traits.
Third: futureproofing. With Alexander-Arnold leaving, Liverpool needs someone who can grow. Bradley’s deal to 2029 shows the club’s belief in him.
Replacement of Trent Alexander Arnold
With that being said, replacing Alexander-Arnold is not exactly just about putting a new face in. The old right-back had great passing range, setโpiece prowess, and assist numbers; Bradley just may not offer that right now. “He’s not that creative as a full-back at the moment,” one expert noted.
In realistic terms, Bradley helped Liverpool with momentum in the campaign when Alexander-Arnold’s focus was elsewhere-injury and contract uncertainty. He made career-high appearances as his long-term deal allows Liverpool to plan ahead. The club is bringing in competition at right-back, too, with reports of Jeremie Frimpong not being overly reliant on one player.
Author’s Insight
Conor Bradley should be giving Liverpool defensive stability, youthful energy, and long-term commitment as the Reds look beyond their Alexander-Arnold era. Not a carbon copy, nor must he be. What is relevant, though, is that he presents a clear choice for going forward, lines up with Liverpool’s vision under Arne Slot, and allows them to evolve rather than freeze in the past. The key going forward will be his health, the ability to deliver full seasons, and capacity to grow his offensive output. If he does that, the transition will not just be about replacing a great player but building the next chapter.
