In a dramatic Premier League encounter on April 20, 2025, Leicester City suffered a 1-0 defeat to Liverpool at the King Power Stadium, a result that confirmed their relegation to the Championship.
The match’s decisive moment came in the 76th minute when Trent Alexander-Arnold, returning from injury, scored the only goal, bringing Liverpool within reach of their 20th league title .
Leicester’s manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy, expressed admiration for Alexander-Arnold’s performance, stating, “We could have won them but they have the best player in the football world… This guy showed us what we’ve not seen in football history. I wish I have him in my team; I could have been topping the league by now.”
Alexander-Arnold’s goal was particularly noteworthy as it was his first senior goal scored with his weaker left foot, highlighting his technical prowess and versatility . His impact was immediate upon entering the match as a substitute in the 71st minute, underscoring his importance to Liverpool’s title ambitions.
The victory not only edged Liverpool closer to the Premier League title but also extended Leicester’s dismal home record to nine consecutive losses without scoring—a new and unwanted record in English top-flight history . Van Nistelrooy, who took over as Leicester’s manager in November 2024, now faces the challenge of rebuilding the team in the Championship.
As Liverpool prepares for their next match against Tottenham Hotspur, a win would secure them the league title, provided Arsenal does not win their midweek fixture against Crystal Palace . Alexander-Arnold’s contribution has been pivotal in this campaign, and his performance against Leicester serves as a testament to his influence on the pitch.
Leicester’s relegation marks a significant downturn for the club, and Van Nistelrooy’s comments reflect both the frustration of the defeat and the recognition of Alexander-Arnold’s exceptional talent. As the season draws to a close, Liverpool stands on the cusp of a historic achievement, while Leicester must regroup and plan for the challenges ahead in the Championship.
