```html Liverpool's Celebrated Full-Back Duo: An Era Ends, But Where Do They Rank Among the Greats?

Anfield is set for a significant reshuffle this summer as Liverpool prepare to move on from what many consider one of the Premier League's most dynamic full-back partnerships. With Trent Alexander-Arnold reportedly joining Real Madrid and new signing Milos Kerkez poised to challenge Andy Robertson's place in the starting XI, an era defined by attacking flair and relentless energy on the flanks is drawing to a close.

The question now is: how will history remember the Alexander-Arnold-Robertson partnership? Their combined impact on Liverpool's success over the past eight seasons has been undeniable, contributing significantly to a trophy-laden period under Jurgen Klopp. But where do they stand when compared to other legendary full-back pairings?

A Statistical Powerhouse

Alexander-Arnold and Robertson featured together in 279 matches for Liverpool, averaging an impressive 35 games per season across all competitions. Only Mohamed Salah has played more games alongside either player. Their record together is remarkable, with 185 wins and only 43 defeats.

Their attacking contributions are particularly noteworthy. Both players consistently operated as integral parts of Klopp’s attacking system, delivering assists at an unprecedented rate for defenders. Between them, they redefined the role of the modern full-back.

"What made them so effective was their understanding of each other's game," says football analyst Jamie Carragher. "They weren't just good individual players; they had a telepathic connection. They knew when to overlap, when to underlap, and when to provide cover. That's something you can't coach; it's built on years of playing together."

Record-Breaking Numbers

The statistics speak volumes. Alexander-Arnold and Robertson have each recorded 10 or more assists in a Premier League season on three separate occasions. In the 2019-20 season, they combined for an astounding 25 assists.

Alexander-Arnold: 64 Premier League assists Robertson: 60 Premier League assists

They currently hold the top two spots for most assists by defenders in Premier League history, comfortably ahead of Leighton Baines (53) and Graeme Le Saux (44). Since their partnership began in 2017-18, only Kevin De Bruyne, Mohamed Salah, and Son Heung-min have provided more assists in the Premier League, regardless of position.

Furthermore, Alexander-Arnold (516) and Robertson (446) rank second and third, respectively, for chances created by Premier League defenders since Opta began recording that data in 2003-04. Baines leads this category with 635 chances created, but he played significantly more games (420) compared to Robertson (308) and Alexander-Arnold (251).

Beyond the Numbers: A Winning Mentality

Their influence extended beyond mere statistics. They were integral members of a Liverpool team that achieved considerable success, winning two Premier League titles, the Champions League, the FA Cup, and two League Cups. Their consistency and reliability made them indispensable assets to Klopp's side.

“They were more than just attacking full-backs; they were leaders on the pitch,” argues former Liverpool captain Graeme Souness. "Their work rate, their commitment, and their desire to win set the tone for the entire team. You can't quantify that with numbers, but it was crucial to Liverpool's success."

Iconic Full-Back Partnerships: A Historical Perspective

The history of football is filled with legendary full-back pairings. Here are a few notable examples:

Roberto Carlos and Cafu (Brazil): This dynamic duo dominated the flanks for Brazil in the 1990s and 2000s, winning the 2002 World Cup and two Copa America titles. Paolo Maldini and Mauro Tassotti (AC Milan): Part of AC Milan's legendary defense in the 1980s and 1990s, they won three European Cups and five Serie A titles together. Denis Irwin and Gary Neville (Manchester United): A consistent and reliable pairing for Manchester United under Sir Alex Ferguson, winning five Premier League titles and the 1999 Champions League. Marcelo and Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid): This attacking duo won five Champions League titles together for Real Madrid between 2014 and 2022.

While each of these partnerships boasts its own unique qualities and accomplishments, the Alexander-Arnold-Robertson pairing certainly deserves to be mentioned in the same breath. Their attacking output, combined with their defensive solidity and winning mentality, cemented their place among the elite.

As Liverpool enters a new era, the legacy of Alexander-Arnold and Robertson will undoubtedly endure. Their contributions to the club's recent success will be remembered fondly by fans for years to come. ```