Juergen Klopp says he “couldn’t have been more disappointed” after hearing boos directed at Trent Alexander-Arnold during Liverpool’s recent 2-2 draw with Arsenal.
The former Liverpool manager revealed he turned off his television in disbelief when sections of the Anfield crowd jeered the local-born full-back, who is expected to leave the club this summer after 20 years of service.
“I needed another 10 seconds to realise and I switched the TV off,” Klopp said at an LFC Foundation fundraiser on Friday. “This is not us. 100% not us.”
Alexander-Arnold, now 26, joined Liverpool at six and became a mainstay under Klopp, making 353 appearances and winning every major club honour.
He added a second Premier League title to his collection this season under new manager Arne Slot, though it remains unclear whether he’ll feature in Sunday’s finale against Crystal Palace.
Klopp, set to attend the match, showed his support by holding up an Alexander-Arnold shirt, urging fans not to forget the player’s loyalty and impact.
“Every day he gave absolutely everything for this badge,” Klopp said. “After 20 years, he decided he wanted to go somewhere else. If someone should be angry, it’s the owners—but they’re not.”
Mohamed Salah, the Premier League’s top scorer this season with 28 goals, also defended his teammate, calling the boos undeserved.
Liverpool are expected to lift the Premier League trophy on Sunday in what could be Alexander-Arnold’s final Anfield appearance.
