Kieran John Trippier, born on September 19, 1990, in Bury, Greater Manchester, eventually established himself as one of the premier right-backs in modern football. His career, marked by perseverance, tactical intelligence, and precision, has seen him rise through the ranks of English football to grace some of the most iconic stages in the world, from the Premier League to La Liga, and from the UEFA Champions League to the World Cup.
Trippier’s footballing journey began at a tender age when he joined Manchester City’s academy at just nine years old. Despite his family’s allegiance to Manchester United, Trippier opted for City, where he already knew some friends, and it was more convenient for him to attend training sessions. The decision would eventually launch his career, but not without its challenges.
In his early years, Trippier excelled through City’s youth system, signing his first professional contract in 2007. He quickly became a key part of the club’s reserve team and even helped City win the FA Youth Cup. However, as Manchester City’s first-team ambitions grew following their lucrative takeover in 2008, Trippier found himself unable to break into a star-studded lineup. The likes of Pablo Zabaleta and Micah Richards blocked his path, and a decision was made to send him out on loan in search of regular playing time.
In February 2010, Trippier joined Barnsley on a one-month loan. It was here that he experienced the demands of professional football for the first time. Despite suffering an injury that cut short his initial spell, Barnsley re-signed him on loan for the 2010–11 season. Trippier’s performances at Barnsley were notable, particularly for his ability to deliver precise crosses and dangerous set-pieces—traits that would become his hallmark. He scored his first senior goal with a stunning free-kick against Leeds United, marking the beginning of his reputation as a dead-ball specialist. His spell at Barnsley culminated in winning their Young Player of the Year award, but it was clear that Trippier’s ambitions stretched far beyond Championship football.
In July 2011, Trippier took the next major step in his career by joining Burnley on a season-long loan. This move would prove transformative. Burnley, competing in the Championship at the time, provided Trippier with the platform to showcase his skills as a regular starter. His ability to attack down the right flank, coupled with his defensive discipline, made him a key figure at Turf Moor. His loan spell was made permanent in January 2012, and Trippier’s development continued at pace.
During the 2012–13 and 2013–14 seasons, Trippier earned back-to-back inclusions in the PFA Championship Team of the Year, an accolade that confirmed his growing reputation. His delivery from wide areas, whether in open play or from set-pieces, was a constant threat. Moreover, Trippier was instrumental in Burnley’s promotion to the Premier League at the end of the 2013–14 season, with the club finishing as Championship runners-up. His performances did not go unnoticed, and Premier League clubs began to circle, hoping to secure the services of the talented right-back.
In June 2015, Trippier signed for Tottenham Hotspur in a £3.5 million deal. This move represented the next big leap in his career, as he was now competing at the top level of English football. At Tottenham, Trippier found himself competing with England’s established right-back, Kyle Walker. While Walker was initially the first-choice, Trippier was determined to make his mark.
His patience and professionalism were rewarded when he began to feature more regularly, especially in European competitions. His first goal for Spurs came in February 2016 in a Premier League match against Watford, where his late run into the box and calm finish showcased his attacking instincts. Trippier became more integral to the team following Walker’s departure to Manchester City in 2017. Under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino, he flourished, particularly during Tottenham’s memorable run to the 2019 UEFA Champions League final, where they finished runners-up to Liverpool.
While Tottenham didn’t manage to lift the trophy, Trippier’s stock had risen considerably, and his crossing ability had become a potent weapon for Spurs. However, after four seasons in North London, the time had come for a new challenge and, in the summer of 2019, he made a move to Atlético Madrid, joining the Spanish giants in a deal worth £20 million. For an English defender to move abroad, especially to a team managed by Diego Simeone—renowned for his tactical discipline—was considered a bold choice. However, Trippier adapted seamlessly to the demands of La Liga and Simeone’s system. His defensive acumen improved under Simeone, while his trademark crossing ability and set-pieces remained an integral part of his game.
The 2020–21 season saw Trippier play a crucial role in Atlético Madrid’s triumphant La Liga campaign, as the club fended off competition from Real Madrid and Barcelona to claim the title. Trippier became the first Englishman in over two decades to win Spain’s top-flight league, cementing his place in the pantheon of modern English footballers succeeding abroad. His time in Spain sharpened his defensive awareness, and he returned to England with an even more well-rounded game.
In January 2022, Kieran Trippier returned to the Premier League, joining Newcastle United. At the time, the Magpies were under new ownership and aiming to rebuild their squad. Trippier’s arrival, for a reported £12 million, marked the beginning of a new era at the club. He was immediately handed a leadership role, not only because of his vast experience at the highest level but also due to his winning mentality and professionalism.
Trippier quickly endeared himself to the Newcastle faithful with his performances and commitment. His leadership qualities shone through as he helped stabilize the club’s defense and offered a potent attacking outlet down the right flank. Furthermore, his ability from set-pieces continued to be a major weapon, with Trippier scoring crucial free-kicks, including one in a 3-1 win over Everton in February 2022.
Trippier’s international journey with England began at youth level, representing the Three Lions from the under-18s through to the under-21s. However, it was not until June 2017 that he made his senior debut for England. His breakthrough moment on the international stage came at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, where Trippier played an instrumental role in England’s run to the semi-finals. His performances earned him widespread praise, with many fans likening his pinpoint deliveries and set-piece prowess to the legendary David Beckham.
One of the defining moments of Trippier’s international career came in the semi-final against Croatia, where he scored a stunning free-kick to give England an early lead. Though the match ended in heartbreak for England, with Croatia winning 2-1 after extra time, Trippier’s contributions were lauded, and he was named in the World Cup Team of the Tournament.
Kieran Trippier continued to be a key part of England’s squad under Gareth Southgate, playing at UEFA Euro 2020, where the team reached the final, and at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Trippier´s versatility was also on display, as he was deployed at both right-back and left-back at various points during these tournaments, once again proving his multi-functionality.