Van Dijk Defends Alexander-Arnold Amid Real Madrid Interest and On-Field Criticism
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Trent Alexander Arnold and Virgil Van Dijk
The spotlight had been on full-back Alexander-Arnold due to recent events both on and off the field. He had been under intense scrutiny following a transfer approach from Real Madrid and a reported £300k per week contract offer from Anfield chiefs. Questions were raised about his focus on the game.
In the 79th minute of the match, Van Dijk was seen shouting and gesticulating towards Alexander-Arnold. The latter had failed to hold up his end of the bargain defending as part of Liverpool’s back four in the build-up to Amad Diallo’s equaliser.
Van Dijk said “Trent has his own people around him, his family and we are there as well. He wants to perform in the best way possible like we all do. That is the main focus.”
Just two minutes later, Man United were in behind on the right flank again. Van Dijk had to rush back to cover and block Alejandro Garnacho’s advance into the penalty area. This left the Dutchman to give Alexander-Arnold a cold stare and a nod of the head in disapproval.
However, Van Dijk himself was yet to find an agreement to stay with the club beyond the end of the current season. Despite this, he defended Alexander-Arnold over the suggestion that the performance was down to ongoing speculation.
Van Dijk said “No. I am fine with it. In my opinion, maybe ask him, that is the distraction, the game.”
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