“It’s Part of our Job” – Arne Slot Responds to Latest Reports Linking Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid | OneFootball

Slot Unfazed by Real Madrid’s Interest in Alexander-Arnold

Liverpool boss Arne Slot remains calm amid fresh speculation linking Trent Alexander-Arnold to a potential move to Real Madrid. Despite reports emerging from Spain, Slot has no concerns about the defender’s focus or commitment, especially with Alexander-Arnold’s contract set to expire next summer.

No Distractions for Alexander-Arnold

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future at Liverpool has become a hot topic, especially with less than a year remaining on his current deal. With Real Madrid rumoured to be circling, January could see the 26-year-old open talks with foreign clubs if no extension is agreed.

But Slot is confident that his star right-back won’t be rattled by the speculation. The Dutchman dismissed any concerns about Alexander-Arnold being distracted by the links to Real Madrid, citing the player’s maturity and mental strength.

Photo: IMAGO

“These players are used to being linked with all the top clubs on a daily basis,” Slot explained. “If they have contracts or not. If you think they’re disturbed by these interests, then I think you don’t do justice to how strong they are mentally and what they are used to. This is part of our job.”

Slot compared the situation to his own experiences with transfer rumours, reflecting on how such distractions are part of the game: “I was at Feyenoord last year and they linked me with many clubs… You just focus on what you have to do.”

Van Dijk and Salah in Similar Situations

It’s not just Alexander-Arnold facing contract uncertainty. Liverpool’s defensive rock Virgil van Dijk and star forward Mo Salah are also out of contract next summer. However, their form has been unaffected by the looming expiry dates, and Slot believes their performances prove that.

“Virgil and Mo the same,” Slot said. “I don’t think that is a problem for them to perform. That’s also what we see at the moment because they’re playing really well.”

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool’s impressive start to the season has been testament to the squad’s focus, with the Reds sitting comfortably at the top of the Premier League. As they prepare to face Chelsea this weekend, Slot remains unconcerned about contract distractions, pointing out that his players continue to deliver on the pitch.

Slot’s Short-Term Focus

While the futures of Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk, and Salah may raise eyebrows for fans, Slot is adamant that his immediate focus is on the here and now, rather than the uncertainties of next summer.

“For me, it is not something I am wondering about. If after the last game of this season is played then it might bother me to think ‘are they here or not?’ But my main focus is now the short-term, and I think in football it is mainly about the short-term – especially if you are a manager.”

Photo: IMAGO

With Liverpool preparing to face Chelsea, Slot’s message is clear: his players are fully focused on the task at hand, and speculation surrounding their futures won’t derail the team’s momentum.

Alisson’s Injury Update

In the midst of contract talks, there’s also concern for Liverpool’s first-choice keeper Alisson, who has been sidelined with a hamstring injury. Slot is hopeful that the Brazilian will return before Christmas, though he’s expected to miss at least seven games.

Liverpool will have to cope without their number one for a crucial part of the season, but with Slot’s calm leadership and the squad’s collective focus, the Reds will be aiming to continue their impressive run of form in both the Premier League and Europe.