Liverpool supporters are still adjusting to the news surrounding Trent Alexander-Arnold, and new head coach Arne Slot has already started planning for the future of the right-back position.
Conor Bradley is the natural candidate to step into the role, and Slot addressed his involvement in the final three matches of the season during his pre-Arsenal press conference:
“Our approach to team selection remains consistent. That won’t change for Sunday. If Conor had been available against Chelsea, he likely would’ve started. Since he wasn’t, there’s a strong possibility he’ll start this time,” Slot explained.
He continued, “I’ve already said that Conor will start because he needs minutes on the pitch to be fully ready for next season.”
It appears that Bradley, wearing the No. 84 shirt, is currently considered the first-choice right-back, with Trent potentially limited to cameo appearances for the rest of the campaign.
When asked about Bradley’s prospects as a regular starter next season, Slot responded, “Let’s not compare him to Trent right now—they’re different types of players. Conor clearly has potential. Just last week, we walked onto the pitch together, and it was my first time there. He mentioned it was his first time too, which surprised me given how advanced I thought he was in his development.”
Slot praised Bradley’s talent but noted that injuries have disrupted his progress: “To become a top player, availability every week is crucial. That’s the next step for him. But we have a lot of belief in Conor as a quality full-back—he’s already shown that over the past two seasons.”
With a big opportunity in front of him, Bradley’s path to becoming Liverpool’s main right-back now hinges on his ability to stay fit.
Slot has expressed full confidence that Liverpool can transition smoothly from Alexander-Arnold’s role, and it’s now up to Bradley to prove he’s ready to take over. Club legend Kenny Dalglish recently called him one of the unsung heroes of the season, and next year, the 21-year-old will aim to earn even greater recognition. Improving his fitness over the summer will be key.