Reds Star Faces Backlash After Agreeing to Summer Exit, but Pundits Defend His Decision
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s return to Liverpool training this week was anything but smooth, as the defender faced an uneasy reunion with teammates following reports of his impending move to Real Madrid.
The 26-year-old, a homegrown hero who has spent his entire career at Anfield, is set to join the Spanish giants on a free transfer this summer when his contract expires. While a formal agreement hasn’t been finalized, both player and club are reportedly confident the deal will go through—a decision that has sparked fury among some Liverpool supporters.
In a video shared by the club on Monday, Alexander-Arnold appeared subdued as he exchanged brief handshakes with teammates Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, and Cody Gakpo at the AXA Training Centre. The right-back avoided prolonged eye contact, while his colleagues looked noticeably downcast—a stark contrast to Mohamed Salah’s cheerful greeting of Joe Gomez moments earlier.
The backlash from fans has been fierce, with some supporters taking to social media to vent their frustration. One extreme reaction saw a fan filming themselves burning a Liverpool shirt bearing Alexander-Arnold’s name and iconic No. 66.
Despite the anger, pundits have rushed to the England international’s defense, arguing that after 20 years at the club—including 349 senior appearances and seven major trophies—he has earned the right to seek a new challenge.
“He’s won everything at Liverpool—why shouldn’t he try something new?” said Chris Sutton on Mail Sport’s It’s All Kicking Off! podcast. “The criticism is coming from knuckleheads. He’s given incredible service to the club.”
Former Arsenal star Paul Merson echoed the sentiment, telling Sky Sports: “He’s been phenomenal for Liverpool. And let’s be honest—it’s Real Madrid. Who turns them down?”
With Liverpool still fighting for the Premier League title—12 points clear of Arsenal—manager Arne Slot will need Alexander-Arnold fully focused for the final nine games, starting with Wednesday’s fiery Merseyside derby against Everton.
But as the saga unfolds, one thing is clear: a player once revered as a local hero now faces an emotional farewell—one that not all fans are ready to accept.
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