"You won't play" - Trent Alexander-Arnold reveals a rule Arne Slot has set at Liverpool. 

"You won't play" - Trent Alexander-Arnold reveals a rule Arne Slot has set at Liverpool.
Trent Alexander-Arnold has shared one of the key rules Arne Slot has introduced since becoming Liverpool’s head coach. Slot, who took over from Jurgen Klopp this summer after the German stepped down following nine years at Anfield, has made an immediate impact.
However, Slot’s biggest challenge so far is set for Sunday when Liverpool face fierce rivals Manchester United in their final match before the September international break. Alexander-Arnold, whose contract expires next summer, has started both matches under Slot, despite only returning for pre-season training at the beginning of August after representing England in Euro 2024.
The defender attracted attention for his visible frustration after being substituted during Liverpool’s win over Brentford, showing his displeasure both on the bench and after the match as Slot spoke to him following his withdrawal in the 73rd minute.
Despite this, Alexander-Arnold is expected to start again against Manchester United at Old Trafford. Ahead of the match, the 25-year-old discussed adapting to the changes Slot has brought to Liverpool since taking over as manager.
“I think we're full of confidence,” he said. “Obviously, there were big changes for us over the summer, and some of us returned late. But we're getting used to the new style, the way the manager wants us to play, and we’re transitioning into a new Liverpool.”
He added, “I think it's going well so far. There’s still a lot we can improve on, and I’m sure the manager and the players feel the same. For us, it’s about maintaining momentum. We believe in ourselves and our style of play. We’ve had two really good games and two wins, so we need to keep that going.”
Alexander-Arnold acknowledged that a solid defensive record is crucial for Liverpool to have a chance at winning the Premier League this season and revealed that Slot has set strict defensive expectations for all players.
“That’s one of the rules the manager has implemented,” he told the club’s website when discussing the team’s commitment to defending, including forwards tracking back. “If you don’t adhere to those rules, you won’t play-it's as simple as that. It’s not just about defenders defending and attackers watching. It’s a whole team effort.
“I think we’ve been able to slow down counter-attacks, get numbers behind the ball, block shots, and prevent dangerous chances. That’s due to our work ethic and what the manager demands.
“If you look at the teams that have been successful in recent years-including ourselves-it’s clear that while we can play exciting football, it’s our defensive solidity that ultimately wins you the league.”