Jeremy Doku’s Reflections on His Performance Against Trent Alexander-Arnold
Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku has admitted that he could have made more of his dominance over Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold in Sunday’s Premier League clash. Despite showcasing an impressive dribbling display, Jeremy Doku regrets his inability to convert those opportunities into significant goal-scoring chances.
City suffered a 2-0 defeat against Liverpool, with Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai securing first-half goals. This loss placed them 20 points behind the Premier League leaders, effectively ending their hopes of defending the title.
Although Pep Guardiola highlighted positives in City’s performance, the result underscored the gap between the two teams. Jeremy Doku, who consistently outmaneuvered Alexander-Arnold, reflected on his missed opportunities post-match.
Jeremy Doku’s Dominant Dribbling vs. Trent Alexander-Arnold
Throughout the game, Jeremy Doku was relentless on the right flank. He completed 15 dribbles and won 16 duels, per Fotmob, topping both categories. Alexander-Arnold struggled, losing 12 duels and being dribbled past 12 times, the most of any player on the pitch.
Despite these impressive numbers, Jeremy Doku acknowledged that he failed to make the most of his dribbling success. He often followed up his successful take-ons with poor decision-making in the final third.
“As an attacker, it’s important not just to pass your player but also to make the right final pass. I got past my marker many times, but I could have done better in setting up my teammates,” Doku admitted.
One crucial moment saw Jeremy Doku dribble into open space but fail to recognize Omar Marmoush’s dangerous run, causing the attack to fizzle out.
“I need to analyze the game and see what I could have done better. [Liverpool] scored two early goals, which made it difficult to find spaces as they played deep. Those goals were decisive, and it’s frustrating.”
Manchester City’s Attacking Struggles and Doku’s Contributions
While Manchester City controlled possession for large portions of the game, their inefficiency in the final third was apparent. Doku’s individual brilliance on the ball contrasted with his lack of a clinical end product.
Statistically, Doku’s output has been inconsistent. In 46 Premier League appearances, he has scored just six goals—a return deemed underwhelming considering he has started 28 matches. His 12 assists include only four contributions in the 2024/25 season.
These numbers highlight the Belgian winger’s need to improve his final decision-making to become a truly elite attacker.
Barcelona Transfer Rumors: Is Doku Leaving Manchester City?
Recent speculation has linked Doku with a move to Barcelona, but a transfer seems unlikely. City invested in the 22-year-old as a long-term project, signing him to a five-year contract less than two years ago.
Furthermore, Barcelona’s financial struggles make a big-money move improbable. City, still confident in Doku’s potential, are not looking to offload him anytime soon.
What’s Next for Jeremy Doku?
Looking ahead, Doku’s primary focus will be improving his efficiency in the attacking third. His performance against Alexander-Arnold showcased his immense dribbling ability, but his decision-making remains a work in progress.
If he can refine his final ball and increase his goal contributions, Doku has the potential to be one of Premier League’s most dangerous wingers. Until then, Manchester City will continue to support his development, hoping that he can turn his exciting dribbling displays into game-changing moments.
