Premier League eropah

Arne Slot defends Alexander-Arnold as Liverpool near Premier League glory

Liverpool moved within touching distance of their first Premier League title since 2020 after Trent Alexander-Arnold’s late winner against Leicester City, a result that extended their lead at the top to 13 points with just five games remaining. The Reds’ dominance under new manager Arne Slot has been clear, with bookmakers now rating them as overwhelming favorites to clinch the title in the coming weeks.

Amid swirling speculation about Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future and reported interest from Real Madrid, Arne Slot was unequivocal in his support for the Liverpool vice-captain. “It’s ridiculous if someone questions his commitment to this club,” Slot said after the match, insisting that the focus should be on Alexander-Arnold’s decisive goal and his ongoing contributions to Liverpool’s campaign. Slot emphasized that Alexander-Arnold’s winner was not just significant for the player himself, but for everyone associated with Liverpool.

With Arsenal having beaten Ipswich Town earlier in the day, Liverpool’s clash with Leicester was seen as a formality in their march towards the title. Despite Leicester’s resistance, Liverpool’s superiority was evident throughout, with Mohamed Salah orchestrating much of the attacking play and Alexander-Arnold ultimately providing the breakthrough.

Liverpool’s win leaves them needing just two more victories to be mathematically certain of the title, with their next opportunities coming against Tottenham and Chelsea. If Arsenal drop further points, Liverpool could secure the championship even sooner.

For Leicester City, the defeat confirmed their relegation, just a year after promotion. Ruud van Nistelrooy’s side showed some fight but ultimately could not match Liverpool’s quality.

Slot acknowledged the emotional significance of potentially winning the league in front of the Anfield crowd, especially after the COVID-19 restrictions that muted their 2020 triumph. “It will feel more special, for sure, doing it in front of our fans,” he said, while also crediting Leicester’s efforts and maintaining focus on the final hurdle.

Liverpool’s relentless form and Alexander-Arnold’s leadership have put them on the brink of a historic 20th English league title, with only the timing of the coronation now in question.