Liverpool capped off their unbeaten home campaign with a thrilling 5-3 win over rivals Chelsea. The Reds’ full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, in particular, was in magnificent form.
After the game, captain Jordan Henderson lifted the Premier League title to cap off a near-perfect season for Liverpool. And with Jurgen Klopp at the helm, the Reds aren’t slowing down anytime soon.
Trent Alexander-Arnold Splendid as Liverpool Beat Chelsea
Bend it Like Alexander-Arnold
It’s nearly impossible to believe that Trent Alexander-Arnold is only 21-years-old. He plays with a maturity that is almost unheard of for someone so young, and he doesn’t have any viable weaknesses as a player. He is arguably one of the best right full-backs in world football.
And his full set of skills was on display in this game. With time winding down in the first half, Liverpool won a free-kick 35 yards from goal. Alexander-Arnold calmly placed the ball and curved a spectacular shot beyond the reach of Chelsea goalkeeper, Kepa Arrizabalaga.
In the 1990s, players were attempting to bend the ball like legendary midfielder David Beckham. Nowadays, it seems like everyone will be trying to bend it like Alexander-Arnold.
And it wasn’t just Alexander-Arnold’s free-kick ability on show. In the second half, the young defender put in a perfect cross that Roberto Firmino headed in. It was the Brazilian’s first goal at Anfield this season and Alexander-Arnold’s 12th assist of the campaign.
With many of Liverpool’s squad ageing, Liverpool and Klopp will be thrilled that they can depend on Trent Alexander-Arnold for the foreseeable future. The young man will be the beating Scouse heartbeat of this team for the foreseeable future.
Chelsea’s Problems Continue
While everything is rosy for Liverpool, Chelsea’s problems run deep. The Blues simply cannot defend, and this is worrying.
While they can score with ease, keeping them out has been a problem all season. Chelsea has conceded 54 goals this season, which is more than anyone in the top 10.
A significant problem for them has been the goalkeeping position. Arrizabalaga has one of the worst save percentages in the league. The world’s most expensive goalkeeper has not lived up to his price tag.
This has led to reports that the club is interested in goalkeeper Dean Henderson who has had a breakout season.
Whatever solution Chelsea decides on, they must improve their defence. If they are compared to Liverpool, the Reds won nothing until Virgil Van Dijk arrived at the club. Chelsea needs a similar solution if they want to compete.
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