Trent Alexander-Arnold’s first appearance since announcing his end-of-season exit from Liverpool was overshadowed by a hostile reception at Anfield, as the defender was booed by sections of the home support during Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal.
The England international, who confirmed on Monday he will leave his boyhood club with a move to Real Madrid widely expected was introduced in the 67th minute to a mixture of cheers and audible jeers.
The reaction deepened as the game wore on, with the 26-year-old targeted while in possession despite a decorated career that includes two league titles and a Champions League crown.
Liverpool boss Arne Slot, who opted to start 21-year-old Conor Bradley in Alexander-Arnold’s place, had declined to instruct supporters on how to react before kick-off.
The crowd responded by singing Bradley’s name, while the veteran right-back endured a difficult return to the pitch.
“It’s not nice to see a friend get booed,” said vice-captain Andy Robertson. “I love him as a player, I love him as a friend. He will be missed.”
Pundit and former Liverpool stalwart Jamie Carragher called the jeers the “story of the game” and voiced disappointment in the crowd’s treatment of a player still giving his all on the pitch.
With emotions running high and Liverpool’s title charge faltering, Alexander-Arnold’s farewell threatens to divide opinion among supporters in a way few Anfield departures ever have.
