As Trent Alexander-Arnold leaves Liverpool this summer, an important position at the club will open up. Taking on the role of vice-captain comes with significant responsibility and represents a major opportunity for the player who steps into it.
We have several competitors to consider—some well-known and others less familiar—and we aim to explore the top choices among them here.
Who will take over as Virgil van Dijk’s backup next season?
Andrew Robertson
Arguably, Liverpool’s strongest candidate for the role of third captain at present is the team’s most robust option.
A captain both on and off the field,
Robertson
has led Liverpool several times, such as during matches against PSV Eindhoven with a restocked lineup, in a 3-0 loss to Wolves in 2023, and across both fixtures of Liverpool’s Round of 16 Europa League matchup versus Sparta Prague in 2024.
Since 2018, the player has been leading Scotland as their captain at the age of 31.
After making 340 appearances for Liverpool, Robertson has played an essential role in the team’s successes over recent years.
There is a small amount of uncertainty over his future as a starter as Liverpool will likely look to sign Milos Kerkez in his position this summer.
Alisson Becker
One of Liverpool’s most important players, and arguably the greatest goalkeeper in the world.
Alisson Becker
, aged 32, has been a key player in Liverpool’s victory for their 20th Premier League title. This season, he has made 25 appearances in the Premier League.
On several occasions, the player from Brazil has led the Reds, such as during the 2021/22 UEFA Champions League matches against FC Porto and AC Milan, as well as in an FA Cup match in 2024 versus Norwich City.
Alisson was also named captain for Brazil during their 3-2 win against Mexico in 2024.
He is additionally a member of Liverpool’s leadership council, and frequently it is during his time on the field that he establishes benchmarks for the remainder of the squad.
Mohamed Salah
Liverpool’s Egyptian King, now back for another two years, Salah sets standards and records on the pitch.
Frequently subdued in public discussions, Salah became more outspoken regarding his contract negotiations.
Salah
led Liverpool to a 4-0 win against Austrian team LASK in the Europa League group stage and also captained the team during their fourth-round FA Cup triumph over AFC Bournemouth in 2023.
He ranks as Liverpool’s third highest goalscorer ever and ought to be seriously considered for the open position of vice-captain at the club.
Salah is also included in Liverpool’s leadership team.
Wataru Endo
While somewhat unexpected, Wataru Endo brings legitimate leadership experience as a captain.
Currently, Endo serves as the captain of the Japanese national squad and has also led VFB Stuttgart. Additionally, he occasionally served as skipper for both Shonan Bellmare and Urawa Red Diamonds, teams where he previously played.
The player, who is 32 years old, isn’t usually part of Liverpool’s starting lineup, potentially reducing his effectiveness as a deputy captain.
Additionally, there exists a universe where Liverpool agree to his transfer bid this coming summer.
Endo
Although he is one of Liverpool’s senior figures and possesses a character you can trust as a deputy captain.
The article was initially posted on Sportexposs.com.
Four contenders to take over from Trent Alexander-Arnold as Liverpool’s deputy captain
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