In a week that saw Paris Saint-Germain march into the Champions League final, Liverpool manager Arne Slot found a clever way to connect Anfield to the action in Paris — by comparing one of his rising stars to PSG’s own Achraf Hakimi.
With Trent Alexander-Arnold set to leave for Real Madrid this summer, Slot didn’t duck the tough questions.
Instead, he backed his young full-back Conor Bradley to step up — and didn’t hesitate to throw in a bold name-drop.
“Conor has such an intense playing style. They all run a lot, but Conor is in his own league. Comparable maybe with Hakimi at PSG. He is everywhere during the game as well,” Slot said.
That’s quite the company to be in. Hakimi, fresh off scoring in the Champions League semifinal, is one of the best in his position.
Slot’s comparison signals big belief in Bradley — and a clear message to fans: the future is already here.
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Arne Slot didn’t hold back on praising Bradley’s work rate and presence on the pitch. He pointed out how the 21-year-old from Northern Ireland covers ground like a seasoned pro.
Still, he added a word of caution — Bradley needs to stay fit and manage the demands of regular football.
“Conor needs time and a good program to keep him fit,” Slot explained, referencing how non-regular starters often face more injuries. “If Conor is going to be the regular starter next season that could maybe help him.”
That regular starting role might come sooner rather than later. With Alexander-Arnold heading to Spain, Liverpool may not rush to the transfer market — especially if Bradley keeps earning comparisons to a Champions League finalist.
And let’s face it — at Liverpool, right-backs don’t just defend. They create, run, and inspire. If Slot’s prediction holds, Bradley could be the next in line to write his name into Anfield legend. No pressure, kid.
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