Wild Keane of Real Madrid speak for the “schoolboy” Alexander-Arnold

Roy Keane has scoffed at talk of Trent Alexander-Arnold joining Real Madrid, saying the Liverpool player is more likely to join fourth-tier strugglers Tranmere Rovers.

Manchester United legend Keane was unimpressed with Alexander-Arnold’s defensive display as his former club belied their league position to take the lead against the runaway Premier League leaders at Anfield sunday

“The chances for United have been too easy, just a couple of balls over the top,” Keane told Sky Sports, adding that the England international had been “everywhere” when United had attacked.

“We talk about how brilliant Trent is going forward, but Trent’s defense today, my God, it’s like schoolboy stuff.

“There is talk of going to Real Madrid, after that he will go to Tranmere Rovers. He’s got to do better defensively, he’s got to do better.”

“After that he will go to Tranmere Rovers” 💬

Roy Keane’s honest opinion on Trent Alexander-Arnold’s defence. pic.twitter.com/vE02Qmnqik

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 5, 2025

Alexander-Arnold’s fight against United

In the 41st minute, Opta stats shared by the Guardian showed that 56% of the visitors’ attacks had come from Liverpool’s right flank guarded by Alexander-Arnold, with their attacks through the center next at 22.6 %.

Amad Diallo failed to capitalize when a Diogo Dalot cross from this side found him unmarked in front of goal, and Lisandro Martínez played in Rasmus Hojlund, but Alisson denied the striker with a fine save.

Seven minutes after the restart, an attack down the left channel allowed centre-back Martinez to crash in Bruno Fernandes’ opener and end United’s six-year wait for a goal at Anfield.

Lisandro Martínez unleashes a thunderbolt strike beyond Alisson! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/z3vmqkbIol

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 5, 2025

“It would be better if Madrid wasn’t watching”

Alexander-Arnold has been heavily linked with a move to the reigning European champions when his contract expires at the end of the season.

The 26-year-old joined Liverpool’s academy in 2004 and has been an integral part of their team in recent years, although his defensive abilities have often been questioned.

“There were a lot of eyes, going into this game, on Trent Alexander-Arnold, after that Real Madrid talk,” said former Reds defender Jamie Carragher, speaking before Cody Gakpo equalised.

“I expected a great performance from him; They’d better hope they (Madrid) aren’t seeing this.”