Slot says he admires Trent’s ‘world’s best’ ambition | OneFootball

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has praised Trent Alexander-Arnold’s ambition to be remembered as the world’s best right-back.

In an interview this week, Alexander-Arnold spoke about his motivation to build a legacy that will endure long after he retires. When asked about his goals, Alexander-Arnold said: “Of course, winning more trophies. But on a personal level, it’s about building a legacy. That is something important to me.”

At 26, the England international has already built a reputation as one of the most gifted attacking full-backs in world football. However, speculation around his future at Liverpool continues to grow, with his current contract set to expire in the summer and persistent links to Real Madrid.

The comments have naturally sparked debate about his long-term aspirations. Alexander-Arnold has already spent two decades at his boyhood club, having joined Liverpool’s academy at the age of six.

Slot, however, sees Alexander-Arnold’s drive as a positive: “I definitely like this in a player,” the Dutchman said. “I think this is something every player must have at this level. If you don’t have this ambition, you probably don’t play at this level.

“As long as they understand that they need the team to be special as an individual, I think that’s key. They must put the team first and, as a result, be special themselves. That’s what all the top players do including Trent.”

Slot also acknowledged the sacrifices required to maintain such high aspirations: “You see these players during a game, and you think, ‘What a life they have.’ It’s true—they have a great life but they put in a lot of work to be at their best every three days.

“That kind of mentality and discipline is not given to everyone. Being a top player requires effort, focus, and the desire to be the best possible player in your position, or even the best player in the world.”