Trent Alexander-Arnold endured a mixed reception at Anfield during Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal on Sunday, with teammate Andrew Robertson expressing disappointment over the boos directed at the departing defender.
Alexander-Arnold, who recently confirmed his decision to leave Liverpool at the end of the season — with Real Madrid widely expected to be his next destination — was jeered by sections of the home crowd as he came on as a 67th-minute substitute.
The 26-year-old England international, a product of Liverpool’s youth academy and key figure in their Champions League and Premier League triumphs, was making his first appearance at Anfield since announcing his impending departure. While some fans cheered his introduction, others audibly booed, especially when he was on the ball during the second half.
“It’s not nice to see a friend get booed,” Robertson told reporters after the match. “There’s a lot of emotion around it, and of course it hasn’t been an easy decision for Trent. But he’s made it. Some people were happy and clapped for him, others booed. That’s football, but it still hurts.”
Despite the jeers, Liverpool manager Arne Slot defended Alexander-Arnold and emphasized that future selections would be based on performance, not sentiment.
“I want to win games, and if Trent gives us the best chance to do that, I’ll play him,” Slot said. “If I think it might be a distraction, I might make a different decision. But my focus remains on what’s best for the team.”
Slot opted to start 21-year-old Conor Bradley over Alexander-Arnold in the match, signaling a look to the future. The Northern Irish youngster received strong support from the Anfield crowd, with chants echoing his name.
Alexander-Arnold’s looming transfer echoes past controversial exits to Madrid, including those of Steve McManaman and Michael Owen. Both faced similar backlash, and many fans have never fully forgiven them for leaving.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher also weighed in on the reaction from the stands. “That’s the main talking point,” he said on Sky Sports. “I understand fans are disappointed, but booing a player wearing the red shirt, who’s still giving everything on the pitch, doesn’t sit right with me.”
Liverpool have two matches remaining this season, against Brighton and Crystal Palace, where Alexander-Arnold could feature again — possibly marking the final chapter in his storied time at the club.
