Former Manchester United first-team coach Rene Meulensteen believes Jeremie Frimpong cannot be viewed as a direct successor to Trent Alexander-Arnold, insisting the England international’s unique qualities set him apart.
Alexander-Arnold has endured a frustrating, injury-disrupted debut season at Real Madrid, making only six La Liga starts under Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa.
His limited involvement has opened the door for others, with Conor Bradley and the Dutch international of Ghanaian descent stepping in at club level to fill the void left by the 27-year-old’s departure from Liverpool.
However, Meulensteen argues that any comparison between Frimpong and Alexander-Arnold misses the point.
Speaking to BetGoat, the Dutch coach praised Frimpong’s athleticism and work ethic but stressed that the two players offer contrasting attributes.
“I like Jeremie Frimpong because he’s a beacon of energy, but you can’t compare him with Trent because Trent was like David Beckham playing at right-back.
“His exquisite quality is his range of passing. And Frimpong is more of a dynamic player that can play as a wingback. He can go forward, he can defend, he can go forward, he can be the man, he can get around him, can put a cross in.
“He’s much more agile and quick than Trent, but completely different in what he gives the team. That’s why it’s just the same position, but you’re just putting a player there with completely different qualities.
“But he is a very top-top professional, hard-working kid. He’ll never let you down. He will always give us 100%. When Liverpool brought him in, I thought it was a good signing because of the versatility that he brings.”
Meulensteen’s assessment underlines the stylistic divide: Alexander-Arnold’s vision and passing range from deep areas evoke memories of David Beckham’s distribution, while Frimpong thrives on speed, direct running, and relentless energy down the flank.
