Liverpool’s famed Anfield atmosphere turned against one of its own during the club’s 2-2 draw with Manchester United on Sunday, as vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold endured criticism and even abuse from sections of the home crowd.
The backlash follows growing tensions over his future, with his contract set to expire in June and Real Madrid reportedly circling.
The Anfield Backlash
From early in the game, Alexander-Arnold was targeted by frustrated fans, with groans and expletives following every misstep.
Despite being a key contributor to Liverpool’s strong season, his form on the day, combined with speculation about his future, sparked audible discontent or betrayal if permitted to call.
At one point, head coach Arne Slot intervened, gesturing to the crowd to ease up on the 24-year-old.
Liverpool correspondent, Gareth Roberts, described the situation as surreal:
“Everything about it was weird. There were a few boos around me. It goes against being a supporter, doesn’t it? It’s gone toxic from a proportion of the fanbase.”
Speculation and Tensions
Alexander-Arnold’s performances this season have been strong overall, with significant improvements defensively.
However, his comments in October—stating he would rather win a Ballon d’Or than another Champions League with Liverpool—sparked frustration among fans. Further fueling speculation, his celebratory “chat” gesture after scoring against West Ham last week was interpreted by many as a nod to transfer rumors.
Roberts noted the weight of expectation on local players:
“People think: ‘You’re a Scouser, a Liverpool fan, you’ve lived our dream—how could you possibly consider going anywhere else?’ But he’s a professional sportsman. If you’ve given 20 years to the same club, you’re within your rights to say you fancy something else because you only live once.”
Historical Parallels
Alexander-Arnold’s situation mirrors past departures of Liverpool icons.
Steve McManaman and Michael Owen both left for Real Madrid in pursuit of new challenges, while Steven Gerrard nearly joined Chelsea in 2005 before public pressure kept him at Anfield.
More recently, Raheem Sterling faced similar backlash before his move to Manchester City in 2015.
Liverpool’s Internal Struggles
The club’s handling of key player contracts has come under scrutiny.
With uncertainty around Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Virgil van Dijk, some fans blame the instability on Liverpool’s leadership.
Since 2021, Liverpool have had four sporting directors, a partial sale by Fenway Sports Group, and manager Jürgen Klopp’s announcement that he will depart at season’s end.
A Threat to the Season?
While many supporters understand Alexander-Arnold’s potential desire to move on after achieving everything with his boyhood club, others have been less forgiving.
Roberts warned that fan hostility could derail Liverpool’s ambitions:
“The collective goal is to win the league. Getting on the back of our own player is wild. Anyone pulling on the red shirt deserves our support.”
(Credit: BBCSport)
