In the highly anticipated "Double Red" match of the 20th round of the Premier League that concluded in the early hours of January 6th, Beijing time, Liverpool was held to a 2-2 draw at home by Manchester United. In this game, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool's right-back valued at 75 million euros, sparked outrage due to his poor performance. Both of Liverpool's conceded goals were closely related to his lackadaisical attitude and poor defense.
In the 52nd minute, after a rash passing error, Alexander-Arnold remained lethargic and did not press forward to challenge, instead allowing Bruno Fernandes to move horizontally before delivering a through ball. This led to Lisandro Martinez breaking into the penalty area and scoring with a powerful shot from a tight angle.
Liverpool's second goal conceded also originated from the right side defended by Alexander-Arnold. During the goal, he was out of position, inexplicably retreating to the center of the penalty area, which forced center-back Ibrahima Konate to move wide to defend against Alejandro Garnacho. This left a gaping hole in the middle, allowing Diawara to score.
After a ridiculous passing error near the sideline, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk glared at Alexander-Arnold with a look that could "kill with eyes," clearly expressing his dissatisfaction with the player's poor performance in the game.
Manchester United legend Roy Keane severely criticized Alexander-Arnold, saying, "He runs around aimlessly in defense, defending like a primary school student. He must do better. People say he might go to Real Madrid. But judging by his current defensive level, he might end up at Tranmere Rovers (an English League Two club). He must do better."
It is well known that Alexander-Arnold's contract with Liverpool expires this summer. Although Liverpool is interested in offering him a new contract worth 300,000 pounds per week to renew with this academy prodigy, Alexander-Arnold's stance remains ambiguous, and he seems inclined to join Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer. Many netizens have angrily accused Alexander-Arnold of having "his heart no longer with Liverpool but already flying to Real Madrid!"
However, after witnessing Alexander-Arnold's absurd defensive performance in this game, it is uncertain whether Real Madrid will still insist on signing this "offensively strong but defensively weak" full-back this summer.