It’s never easy when a hometown hero decides to move on, especially after growing up through the ranks and spending his whole career at one club.
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s decision to leave Liverpool this summer has stirred up some strong feelings among the fans — and his recent appearance against Arsenal showed just how complicated that can get.
Boos at Anfield Mark a Difficult Goodbye
In Liverpool’s match against Arsenal on Sunday, Trent didn’t start the game but came on as a substitute in the second half.
Instead of cheers, he was met with boos from sections of the crowd.
This was Liverpool’s first home game since he announced his departure to Real Madrid, and clearly, some fans were struggling with the news.
Paul Scholes Understands the Fans’ Reaction
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes weighed in on the situation and explained why the reaction, while harsh, made sense from a supporter’s perspective.
Speaking in his TNT Sports column, Scholes pointed out that it’s hard to truly grasp what Liverpool fans are feeling unless you live there or support the club passionately.
He compared it to the kind of pride Manchester United fans have about their team being the best in the world.
When a key player decides to leave — especially to a rival giant like Real Madrid — it can feel like a personal loss.
Comparing Trent’s Move to Past Big Departures
Scholes drew parallels to famous exits like Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham moving from Manchester United to Real Madrid.
While the circumstances weren’t exactly the same — Beckham wasn’t a local lad, and Ronaldo’s dream was always Madrid — those departures also caused waves among the fanbase.
He wondered how it might feel if players who came up through United’s youth system — like himself, the Neville brothers, Giggs, or Butt — decided to leave in a similar way.
Would the uproar be just as intense? Possibly.
Credit to Trent for Handling It with Class
What Scholes really highlighted was how well Trent handled the situation.
Unlike some players who kick up a fuss or demand transfers, Trent chose to see out his contract and make his decision public only after everything was clear. That maturity deserves recognition.
He didn’t cause disruption or refuse to play — instead, he stayed professional until the end, which isn’t always the case these days.
It’s Personal and Professional for Trent
Of course, this move won’t sit well with many Liverpool fans who see the club as their whole world.
But for Trent, it’s about taking the next step in his career and joining a new challenge in Spain, alongside his close friend Jude Bellingham.
Scholes summed it up perfectly: while fans might not be happy about losing him, it’s Trent’s life and career, and sometimes, you have to respect those decisions — even when they’re tough to accept.