Henderson, Firmino react to Liverpool ‘legend’ Trent Alexander-Arnold’s message
Trent Alexander-Arnold gained the attention of past and present Liverpool stars as the full-back said his final goodbyes before moving to Real Madrid.
The 26-year-old dedicated 20 years of his life to the club, going on to make 354 appearances while notching 23 goals and 86 assists, but his exit announcement was greeted by jeering.
Fans were furious by his decision not to extend his contract and leave on a free transfer, though Dan Plumley told Liverpool 247 that Liverpool must “squeeze” Real Madrid for money if he is to leave early.
He finished his final season at Anfield with four goals and seven assists in 44 appearances, and while fans are still split over the style of his exit, he has left a heartfelt message to them in return.
Trent Alexander-Arnold waves farewell to Liverpool
Taking to Instagram (28 May), Alexander-Arnold wrote: “Perfect send off. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, I love my city,” with Cody Gakpo simply replying: “Legend.”
The post also grabbed the attention of former stars Jordan Henderson and Roberto Firmino, and his current teammates Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai.
Arne Slot ready to rebuild after Trent Alexander-Arnold exit
Football Insider verdict
Arne Slot already looks to be moving on from the departing full-back, with Football Insider understanding that Liverpool are closing in on a deal for Jeremie Frimpong, among other stars.
Milos Kerkez and Florian Wirtz are also heavily linked with moves to Anfield, and fans are already excited for the 2025/26 campaign to kick off, just days after the end of the current campaign.
Supporters were, however, left disappointed by Slot only lifting the Premier League title in his first season in England, having been knocked out of the FA Cup and Champions League at early stages.
While Mohamed Salah has put pen to paper on a new deal, there is an expectation that a shift in forwards will happen, with Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez, and Diogo Jota all linked with Liverpool exits.
Only the Colombian has impressed under the new manager, but even he is at risk of having to find a new club as Slot adapts the squad to fit his very specific playing style.
Of course, the likes of Van Dijk, Mac Allister, and Ryan Gravenberch are safe, but it remains to be seen just how many changes the Dutchman wants to make before the new season begins.