Trent Alexander-Arnold, who joined Liverpool’s academy at just six years old and has spent the last 20 years at the club, is now facing a harsh reaction from fans after announcing his departure.
At six, he took his first small steps into Liverpool’s academy, training two to three days a week. Gradually, that academy became his home. He embraced his hometown club, moving up from the youth teams to the senior squad, becoming a beloved son of the city and a fan favorite. But when he announced he would be leaving after two decades, he was met with boos from the very supporters he’d won over.
Liverpool still have two league games left this season — an away match against Brighton on Tuesday and then a home fixture against Crystal Palace the following Sunday. That Crystal Palace game could be Alexander-Arnold’s farewell appearance.
After the announcement, a section of fans booed him during Sunday’s home game against Arsenal, and it’s uncertain if similar reactions might follow in the remaining matches.
Some of the coach and teammates expressed their disappointment over the fans’ behavior towards Alexander-Arnold. Now, Mohamed Salah has spoken out, telling Sky Sports that Alexander-Arnold does not deserve this treatment.
“Of course, I was hurt by the fans’ behavior… I was really surprised because Liverpool fans are not supposed to act like that. No one deserves that kind of reaction. Anyone who has played here, even for just six months, deserves respect and praise.”
“Think about it — this is a boy who has given everything to the club for 20 years… He shouldn’t be treated like this. I hope it changes in the next match, whether against Brighton or in the last game of the season… because he deserves a great farewell.”
Salah himself faced uncertainty over his contract throughout the season but signed a new two-year deal last month. The Liverpool star forward understands Alexander-Arnold’s reasons for leaving.
“It’s his decision. Spending 20 years at one club is tough. People think it’s easy to decide to stay at a club. It’s not easy. I didn’t really want to talk too much with him about this because I want him in my team. But I understand why (he’s leaving).”
“I will definitely miss him a lot. Yesterday, I told him not to look me in the eye when he says goodbye because I really love him.”
Salah believes fans often fail to see the inner side of a star or understand their mental state.
“He deserves the best farewell when he leaves the club. He has done so much for this city and club. He’s one of the best in the club’s history. Now he feels the need to take on a new challenge. He has talked with me about this. This is his decision, no doubt.”
“At 26 years old, he’s won the league twice here. What more could he have done? He needed to change and challenge himself. People don’t really understand these things. But 20 years at one club is mentally tough. We all love this place. Of course, we love it. But going to the same place every day can become mentally exhausting for someone.”
Salah reiterated that Alexander-Arnold doesn’t deserve to be booed at Liverpool.
“I want the best for him. I’ll always keep in touch with him. The fans have been harsh on him. He doesn’t deserve this because he has given everything for these supporters.”
