In a unique challenge match, Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold will face off against reigning World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen. The 24-year-old right-back will participate in the event just one day after Liverpool’s showdown with Manchester City in a Premier League match at Anfield, coinciding with his 25th birthday celebration.

Alexander-Arnold and Carlsen will compete in a tournament hosted by international cybersecurity specialists and World Chess Championship partner Kaspersky Lab. The young footballer, who earned a spot in England’s World Cup squad last summer after an impressive breakthrough season, eagerly embraced the opportunity to portray Carlsen, as he has always been fascinated by the chess champion.

Alexander-Arnold will be supported by young Indian prodigy Shreyas Royal and 12-year-old English pop singer Kylie B. He believes that discipline is the key to success in both football and chess. Chess, like football, demands strategic thinking and mastery. You must be vigilant in defense and know when and how to аttаck, said Alexander-Arnold.

Similar to players on the field, chess pieces possess various attributes, positions, and roles. To achieve your objective, you must learn how to maximize their potential. When Kaspersky Lab approached me, I jumped at the chance. Football has always been my passion, and I have played the game my whole life. This is wonderful news for me, he added.

“I have been playing both chess and football since I was a young child,” Alexander-Arnold continued. “Despite being based in Sheffield now, we manage to play regularly. Playing against Carlsen will be a tough test, but with the help of Kaspersky Lab, I believe I can surprise everyone.”

Dubbed the “Melwood Grandmaster,” Alexander-Arnold will have the opportunity to compete against a player who has dominated the world of chess for the past eight years. The event will take place in Manchester.