Gerrard cannot understand Trent Alexander-Arnold England snub

Trent Alexander‑Arnold’s absence from Thomas Tuchel’s England roster for the upcoming matches against Uruguay and Japan has sparked plenty of debate in England. The Liverpool‑born right back was left out entirely, and for many fans — and one Premier League legend — the decision makes no sense.

Steven Gerrard, one of the most respected voices in English soccer, didn’t hold back. He said he was “very disappointed” with Tuchel’s call and laid out why he believes Alexander‑Arnold should be part of this international window — and on the plane to the World Cup this summer (June 11 to July 19).

“I was shocked — really shocked,” Gerrard said. “Listen, we’ve got some good options at right back. I think Reece James is world‑class, in my opinion. I really like [Tino] Livramento - I know he’s had a couple of injuries, but he can play on both sides. I understand the selection. But I just think: is Trent Alexander‑Arnold in the 35 best players in this country? Of course he is.”

“He can change a game with one pass”

Gerrard went further, explaining exactly why Alexander‑Arnold’s skill set is too valuable to ignore.

“There’s going to be certain games where England have to open the door - it might be against a low block where it’s really frustrating and Trent Alexander is one of these players who can come off the bench and completely change the match with a single pass,” he said. “He’s that level of a player. So I am surprised — and I’m disappointed for him.”

Still, Gerrard acknowledged there may be factors behind the scenes influencing Tuchel’s decision.

“There’s a lot of other situations and circumstances that you’ve got to take into consideration,” he admitted. “How much has he played? Is he physically at his best? Is something going on off the field?”

Then he floated another possibility.

“Is it where [Tuchel] doesn’t want a group of players that are not playing or that are not going to be in the XI that might be different people around the place - there’s a lot of things that get taken into consideration before you select a squad over a six-week basis rather than a one-off game”.

Gerrard on Trent’s move to Real Madrid: “What are you doing?”

Gerrard also revisited another topic that clearly still stings: Alexander‑Arnold’s departure from Liverpool to join Real Madrid. As a club legend who spent his entire career at Anfield, Gerrard admitted he struggled with the decision.

“Any player is going to listen when Barcelona or Real Madrid come calling,” he said. “Madrid came for me when Mourinho was there — seriously. I listened. It didn’t go far because we said no quickly, but they had my attention. It’s Real Madrid. Anyone would think about it — if you don’t, you’re not human. So I understand Trent’s situation. His best friend plays there, maybe he wants a new challenge, he’s won everything at Liverpool… I get part of it.”

But then came the emotional punch.

“Putting on my Liverpool shirt, I think: what are you doing? You’re at one of the best teams in Europe, winning things I still dream about. You’re one of the most important players in the squad, the fans adore you — what are you doing? He’s taking risks. At Liverpool he’s a leader. I hope it works out for him. I wouldn’t have done it.”

Gerrard’s comments land just three months before the World Cup — and they’re sure to fuel even more debate about Trent’s role, his future, and England’s plans under Tuchel.

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