Liverpool need a new vice-captain this summer following the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid. His exit creates a significant gap in the leadership group, and the role of supporting Virgil van Dijk on and off the pitch now hangs in the balance.
The Liverpool vice captain role demands for presence, consistency, and a deep understanding of the club’s identity.
With several experienced players and emerging leaders available, Arne Slot faces a key early decision in his reign. Should the armband go to a seasoned veteran or a younger figure who represents Liverpool’s long-term future?
Here are five likely contenders for the Liverpool Vice Captain role.
5 Likely Replacements For Liverpool Vice Captain
1. Alexis Mac Allister – The Long-Term Option for Liverpool
If Slot is thinking about continuity and future stability, Alexis Mac Allister makes a strong case for the Liverpool vice captain role. Despite being at the club for under three years, the Argentine midfielder has become one of the most consistent and composed performers in the squad.
Mac Allister brings a winning mentality, having lifted the World Cup with Argentina, and he fits seamlessly into the club’s high standards established under Jürgen Klopp. He might not yet carry the same status as others in the leadership group, but his influence is growing, both on and off the pitch.
While Salah, Alisson, and Robertson have more time under their belts, Mac Allister stands out as a player who could be a fixture at the heart of the team for years to come. Promoting him now would send a clear message that Liverpool are building around a new core.
2. Mohamed Salah – The Senior Statesman
Mohamed Salah is arguably the most obvious choice for Liverpool vice captain. Having dedicated his prime years to the club, his leadership has matured with time. Though he doesn’t wear the armband officially, he has taken on that responsibility through his performances and attitude.
Salah sets the tone for the team through his professionalism, fitness, and relentless drive. Younger players admire him, and he is a vocal figure both during matches and behind closed doors. His commitment to Liverpool’s cause is unquestionable, and the timing feels right for him to step formally into a leadership role.
Van Dijk and Salah as captain and vice-captain would make a formidable leadership duo, combining experience, presence, and respect.
3. Alisson Becker – The Trusted Voice in the Dressing Room
While Alisson may not be the loudest figure in the Liverpool dressing room, he commands enormous respect. When he speaks, everyone listens.
The Brazilian goalkeeper is admired for his calm authority, consistency, and influence especially among the South American players. He has helped shape the club’s culture quietly but effectively and remains one of the best in the world in his position.
With his contract potentially running until 2027, Alisson’s continued presence in the starting lineup makes him a logical candidate for promotion within the leadership group. Giving him the Liverpool vice captain role would reflect his quiet influence and the trust he already enjoys among players and staff.
4. Andy Robertson – The Passionate Veteran (With a Caveat)
Andy Robertson is already part of the leadership group and has long been admired for his energy, competitiveness, and passion. He leads by example and shares a strong bond with Van Dijk on the pitch.
However, what might work against Robertson is the growing competition at left-back. The recent signing of Milos Kerkez suggests Slot is planning for the future in that position. If Robertson’s game time begins to reduce, it could complicate his candidacy for vice-captain.
Still, if trusted with the role, Robertson would bring intensity and accountability, two traits any team would welcome in a leader.
5. Curtis Jones – The Wildcard and Boyhood Red
Curtis Jones may be the surprise name on this list, but he has already written himself into the club’s history books. At just 19 years and 5 days old, he became the youngest player ever to captain Liverpool’s senior side during an FA Cup clash with Shrewsbury Town.
A local lad through and through, Jones understands what the club means to the city and its people. Over the past two seasons, he has matured into a more disciplined and tactical midfielder, with his role expanding under both Klopp and, more recently, Slot.
While he may not yet be the first name most fans consider for the Liverpool vice captain role, his leadership potential is evident. Slot could view him as a symbolic and strategic pick, one that honours the club’s identity while nurturing the next generation of leaders.
