Michael Owen recently opened up about an emotional moment in his career, where he was brought to tears after being booed by his own fans.
This incident mirrors a similar experience Trent Alexander-Arnold faced just last weekend, when Liverpool fans greeted him with hostility during a match against Arsenal.
Trent Faces Hostile Reception at Anfield
During Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal, Alexander-Arnold came on as a substitute in the second half, only to be met with loud boos from the crowd.
The reaction from fans was a sharp contrast to the admiration he has received over the years, and it was clear that the situation weighed heavily on him.
The defender had already announced that he would be leaving Liverpool in the summer after a 20-year association with the club.
Rumors suggest that he will join Real Madrid on a free transfer, with his contract set to expire soon.
Michael Owen’s Own Experience of Being Booed
Owen, who himself played for Liverpool for years before his move to Real Madrid in 2004, shared a deeply personal story of when he returned to Anfield as a Newcastle player in 2005.
Like Alexander-Arnold, Owen received a cold reception from the Liverpool fans when he faced his former club.
Reflecting on the emotional toll of the experience, Owen recalled how difficult it was for him.
“For your own people to boo you, it’s a big lump in your throat,” Owen explained.
“I remember sitting in the players’ lounge after playing against Liverpool for Newcastle, and my parents and I were all in floods of tears because I’d just been booed by my own people.”
A Lesson in Loyalty and Heartbreak
Owen admitted that he still struggles to understand the reasoning behind such a reaction, even years later.
“I’m probably the closest person on the planet who knows what it feels like to be in Trent’s shoes.
He’ll be mortified,” Owen added, emphasizing how the booing can leave a lasting impact.
The former striker further shared that even though Alexander-Arnold had enjoyed years of adulation, the negative reception from fans could overshadow his contributions.
“The one thing I remember now is I forget a lot but think they booed me at the end, and it just makes you feel absolutely sick for what you did for the club,” Owen confessed.
Trent’s Reaction and Support from Teammates
Despite the boos, Alexander-Arnold remained composed.
He didn’t react to the crowd’s response when he came on and applauded the fans at full-time, showing his professionalism.
Meanwhile, his teammates, Virgil van Dijk and Andrew Robertson, shared their thoughts on the situation and the impending departure of their long-time friend.
Van Dijk expressed his support, stating, “There is no other place to be at this point,” making it clear that Alexander-Arnold’s presence would be missed.
Robertson also spoke emotionally, describing the bond he shares with Alexander-Arnold. “I’m disappointed to lose my best mate in the game.
He’s an amazing player, an amazing person, and he’s made me a better player,” Robertson shared, clearly feeling the weight of his teammate’s exit.
A Legacy That Will Always Remain
Robertson went on to praise Alexander-Arnold’s achievements, noting his legacy at Liverpool.
“The trophies he’s won, the moments he’s had in history will always be there,” Robertson said, underscoring the impact Alexander-Arnold has had on the club and its fans over the years.
As Alexander-Arnold prepares to leave, the mix of emotions surrounding his departure highlights the deep connection he has with the club and its supporters, even in the face of adversity.