Slot on Alexander-Arnold's future: 'We both know where he's going...' | OneFootball

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed that Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is set to leave the club, won’t start against Arsenal - with Conor Bradley stepping into the line-up instead.

Alexander-Arnold announced his departure from Liverpool last week, as he edges closer to a free transfer to Real Madrid.

With Liverpool having wrapped up the Premier League title two weeks ago, Sunday’s match against second-placed Arsenal carries little weight in terms of the standings. Slot has confirmed that Alexander-Arnold won’t be in the starting XI.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Slot said: "Conor will start on Sunday because he needs more games under his belt to prepare for next season. Let's not compare him with Trent, they are two different types of players.

"For me he is already there ahead of development than being at Chelsea for the first time. Unfortunately, he hasn't been fit all season but to become a good player you have to be fit all season but we have a lot of confidence in him as a very good full-back for Liverpool."

Slot declined to confirm Alexander-Arnold’s next destination, though he gave a knowing response when asked about the Real Madrid links and their plans for the Club World Cup.

"He hasn't said anything about it himself," Slot said. "For me, it's impossible to comment on where he's going and if that is a club that is going to play in the Club World Cup.

"You see by my smile we both know where he's going to but it hasn't been said yet. That's impossible for me to comment on."