Gary Lineker compares Trent Alexander-Arnold to David Beckham

In a recent episode of 'The Rest is Football' podcast, aired a few weeks ago, former England forward Gary Lineker expressed his views on the passing abilities of two prominent football players: Trent Alexander-Arnold of Liverpool and David Beckham, a legendary figure associated with Manchester United. Lineker highlighted Alexander-Arnold's exceptional talent on the ball, positioning him as the heir apparent to Beckham, who is celebrated for his remarkable crossing and passing skills. During the discussion, Lineker noted that while Beckham is often revered for his precise crossing, Alexander-Arnold has showcased an even broader range of passing abilities, likening the Liverpool full-back to a quarterback for his vision and execution on the field. This perspective sparked a debate on the evolution of football and the way modern players like Alexander-Arnold are perceived in comparison to previous generations. The conversation also touched upon Beckham's dual legacy as an exceptional player and a global celebrity, suggesting that his off-field fame sometimes overshadows his on-field contributions. Lineker reminisced about his own playing days and expressed admiration for Beckham's capability to create goal-scoring opportunities through his pinpoint crosses, indicating that he would have loved to play alongside him during his career. In a notable endorsement, Beckham himself acknowledged the similarities between his style and Alexander-Arnold's delivery. He emphasized that Alexander-Arnold possesses a unique vision for making complex passes that can change the dynamics of a match, further validating Lineker's comparison. This exchange underscores the ongoing dialogue surrounding the evolution of playmakers in football and raises questions about how players from different eras are valued by fans and pundits alike.