After more than two decades linked to Liverpool, Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to play his final game for the club at Anfield this Sunday.
It’s a bittersweet moment for many Reds fans, as the local academy product prepares to say goodbye before his move to Real Madrid on a free transfer.
But the farewell hasn’t been smooth — instead, it’s stirred mixed emotions among supporters.
Fans React with Passion and Controversy
Since the transfer news broke, Liverpool fans have shown a range of reactions.
Some were visibly upset — one even burned a shirt bearing Alexander-Arnold’s name.
Others expressed their frustration during matches, with boos echoing around the stadium when he came on as a substitute against Arsenal.
The tension even led to him sitting on the bench against Brighton, leaving many wondering what role he will play in this last Anfield appearance.
While the booing has dampened what was once a strong connection between the defender and the fans, several Liverpool players have publicly urged supporters not to boo their teammate.
Mohamed Salah, for instance, called the treatment “harsh” and insisted Alexander-Arnold didn’t deserve such negativity.
Similarly, Dominik Szoboszlai confronted the crowd on the pitch after the hostile reception against Arsenal, showing solidarity with the England star.
Manager Arne Slot’s Candid Criticism
In a surprising turn, Liverpool manager Arne Slot has taken a more critical stance on Alexander-Arnold.
Slot acknowledged that the defender hasn’t always been at his best in training, particularly in his defensive duties, and challenged him to raise his level.
“He’s leaving anyway, so maybe this can be the first gift I give to Xabi Alonso,” Slot joked, referring to the club’s incoming coach.
“I wasn’t completely happy with every minute he spent on the training ground. There were definitely moments where he could have done more, to put it mildly.
I told him he’s a much better defender than people think, but he doesn’t always show it.”
Slot also said he hasn’t decided if Alexander-Arnold will feature against Crystal Palace in the final game.
Interestingly, the manager was seen at the player’s ‘Summer of 66’ leaving party last week, fresh off his own celebration following Liverpool’s Premier League triumph.
The Player’s Legacy and Next Steps
Known for his exceptional passing and creativity, Alexander-Arnold has often stepped into midfield roles for Liverpool, dazzling fans with his vision and technique.
His upcoming move to Real Madrid will reunite him with his England teammate and close friend Jude Bellingham, marking a new chapter in his career.
However, his defensive work has faced criticism over the years, and Slot’s comments only highlight that side of his game has been a concern.
Despite the mixed reactions, many still recognize his undeniable attacking talent and leadership qualities as Liverpool’s vice-captain.
Mixed Emotions but Respect for the Journey
Slot has previously spoken about the complex emotions surrounding Alexander-Arnold’s departure.
“I think it’s difficult for him, and he’s said himself how hard it’s been,” Slot said.
“We have to make it as difficult as possible for him because that’s the way you want to approach it.
But maybe he’s been pleasantly surprised by the reaction.
It wasn’t all negative — there were mixed reactions, and as the game went on, people were cheering for him to score.”
He added that the feelings from fans might not be as negative as they seem on the surface, reflecting the complicated but respectful farewell this Liverpool academy star is receiving as he prepares to leave Anfield for the last time.