Conor enjoys defending more and is very aggressive in stopping opponents.
Image credit: EuroFoot
Conor Bradley is a young soccer player for Liverpool who’s getting ready to take a big step.
With star defender Trent Alexander-Arnold leaving, 21-year-old Conor might be the one to fill his spot.
During a youth game against Atletico Madrid, former player Fernando Torres noticed Conor’s great skills as a right-back.
He was impressed by how Conor ran past players, made smart passes, and knew when to defend or attack.
Coaches and scouts saw something special in him early on.
Conor’s Journey to Liverpool
Conor started playing soccer in Northern Ireland. Coach Aidy Laird first noticed him when Conor was just 9 or 10 years old.
Even at that young age, he had great awareness and quick decision-making.
Later, coach Dixie Robinson saw how hardworking Conor was. He wasn’t just talented—he had a great attitude too.
Once, when there was no goalkeeper at practice, Conor jumped in to help without being asked.
At first, Conor played in attacking positions and scored lots of goals. But as he grew and trained more, he learned to play defense.
Now, he’s one of Liverpool’s best right-backs.
Proving Himself on the Field
Conor went on loan to Bolton Wanderers, where he played 53 games, scored seven goals, and won Player of the Year awards.
After that, he returned to Liverpool and impressed in his first season, helping the team win the Carabao Cup.
Michael O’Neill, the Northern Ireland national coach, believes Conor has what it takes to replace Trent.
Conor Bradley has signed a new long-term contract at Liverpool ✍️🔴 pic.twitter.com/F3llKB1xPe
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 17, 2025
He says Conor is mentally strong and determined, even though injuries have sometimes held him back.
Different Styles, Same Goal
Conor plays differently than Trent Alexander-Arnold.
While Trent is known for his long passes and crossing from deep, Conor is more about speed and running forward.
He often makes quick runs alongside Mohamed Salah and gets into good positions to help attack.
Coach O’Neill says Conor can also play in other positions like wing-back or even midfield.
He believes Conor enjoys defending more and is very aggressive in stopping opponents.
Facing New Challenges
Liverpool is close to signing Jeremie Frimpong, a top defender from Germany. But Conor isn’t worried.
He’s used to competition and knows he has to work hard to keep his place in the team.
