Liverpool’s 22-year-old right-back Conor Bradley has once again caught the attention of the Spanish media, after another top performance in the Champions League.
This time, Marca highlighted the Northern Irishman’s display against Real Madrid, describing him as “kryptonite” for both Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappé.
The outlet recalled how Bradley, who came through the club’s academy and has a background in Gaelic football, first impressed against Paris Saint-Germain last season.
Filling in for an injured Trent Alexander-Arnold, he not only registered an assist for Alexis Mac Allister in a 2-0 win but also shut down Mbappé. According to Opta, he won eight duels, completed four tackles and was the most fouled player on the pitch. His late sliding challenge on the French star was described as a wonderful moment for Liverpool fans.
One year later, history repeated itself at Anfield. With Alexander-Arnold now at the other side of the pitch, Bradley started again and neutralised another world-class winger. This time Vinicius Jr.
Conor Bradley
FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY – OCTOBER 22: Conor Bradley of Liverpool FC during the UEFA Champions League match between Eintracht Frankfurt and Liverpool
Voted Liverpool’s Man of the Match by supporters, he recovered seven balls, made three successful tackles and completed three of his four dribbles. Marca say Bradley ‘outshone Vinicius and Mbappé’.
After the match, manager Arne Slot praised the youngster’s energy and discipline:“Conor was outstanding. He played 90 minutes with incredible intensity against Vinicius and defended very well.”
Still only 22, Bradley’s consistent ability to perform against elite opposition is strengthening his case as Liverpool’s long-term heir to Alexander-Arnold on the right flank.