Roy Keane took aim at Trent Alexander-Arnold’s defensive performance after Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Manchester United, joking that the right-back should be aiming for a move to Tranmere Rovers instead of Real Madrid. Alexander-Arnold’s first-half blunder, a poor pass that led to Lisandro Martinez’s opener for United, was a key moment in the match. Despite goals from Cody Gakpo and Mo Salah pulling Liverpool level, United equalized through Amad Diallo.
Keane’s criticism came as rumors of Alexander-Arnold’s potential transfer to Real Madrid continued to swirl. The former Manchester United captain was far from impressed with the Liverpool defender’s showing, particularly his lack of defensive awareness. Reflecting on missed chances by Diallo and Rasmus Hojlund, Keane told Sky Sports at half-time, “It’s too easy. United’s opportunities came from a couple of simple balls over the top. We often praise Trent for his attacking contributions, but his defending today has been shocking—like schoolboy stuff. With performances like this, he won’t be heading to Madrid, but rather to Tranmere Rovers.”
Tranmere Rovers wasted no time responding to Keane’s remarks, taking to social media to post a picture of their player Cameron Norman and commenting: “Trent to Tranmere Roy? Nah, we’re alright thanks.”
Ahead of the match, Keane had already voiced concerns over Manchester United’s form, particularly their defensive fragility. “I don’t see how United can come here and perform well,” Keane remarked. “They’ve been poor defensively, and every time the ball goes into their box, they look like they’ll concede. This United team looks weak and disconnected. Honestly, I’m more worried about them than I’ve been in a long time—it’s one of the worst United sides I’ve seen in years.”
