"Bradley was earmarked as Alexander-Arnold's heir apparent from the moment he announced his decision to leave Liverpool for Real Madrid, so once the fates paired the two European superpowers together in the Champions League, the stage was set. And what a contrast it was as the 22-year-old Northern Ireland right-back was the shining symbol of a Liverpool display that harked back to their Premier League title-winning best as Real Madrid were swept aside."
"It was a day of unrelenting ill-feeling aimed in Alexander-Arnold's direction, from his mural near Anfield being vandalised with the words "Adios El Rata" before the game to the Anfield anger provoked by what many Liverpool fans regard as his betrayal. Bradley actually fuelled the fury and scorn aimed in Alexander-Arnold's direction with a magnificent display that reduced the formidable Vinicius Jr to a passenger, only able to offer theatrics poor theatrics at that in the face of the youngster's physical dominance."
Conor Bradley delivered a dominant Champions League performance at Anfield, neutralising Vinicius Jr and energising the crowd with tackles, precise passing and physical control. Trent Alexander-Arnold, who left Liverpool for Real Madrid, encountered persistent hostility from fans who vandalised his mural and voiced anger at his departure. Bradley's display intensified the contrast, earning chants, admiration from manager Arne Slot and clear preference from supporters. Alexander-Arnold began the match on the bench and received sustained jeers when present. The match highlighted a changing dynamic at right-back and a palpable divide between former player and fanbase.
Read at www.bbc.com
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