Alexander-Arnold ‘shocked’ as Liverpool ‘civil war’ erupts – Exclusive
Trent Alexander-Arnold was the subject of Liverpool supporters’ frustrations in the 2-2 draw with Arsenal.
The Reds relinquished a 2-0 lead on Sunday (11 May) and many observers blamed Arne Slot for bringing the England star onto the pitch.
The reaction at Anfield was hostile, as the 26-year-old was booed by a large section of the fans in the stadium after his decision to leave at the end of his contract.
The Three Lions ace is expected to join Real Madrid when his deal expires and the Spanish giants want to sign him before their Club World Cup campaign starts on 18 June.
Liverpool in ‘civil war’ after Alexander-Arnold exit
It is safe to say that Alexander-Arnold’s decision has hit a chord with Reds supporters, with many considering Los Blancos to be a rival.
The majority of the anger comes from the fact that the move seems planned, with the academy graduate signing a four-year deal last time around.
Frustration was evident in the draw with the Gunners, as his introduction was heckled, followed by every touch that he took in the contest.
TV Commentator Ian Darke believes that Alexander-Arnold will have been shocked by the reaction and claimed that it has caused a civil war amongst the fanbase.
Speaking exclusively to Liverpool News, he said: “I get the argument from one perspective that he has strung the club along a little, they haven’t collected a fee for him but does he owe Liverpool anything and do they owe him anything?
“He has come through the academy, given long years of service, and helped the club to win every trophy they could possibly win in that time.
| Trophy | Times won |
| Premier League | 2 |
| Champions League | 1 |
| FA Cup | 1 |
| Carabao Cup | 2 |
| UEFA Super Cup | 1 |
| FIFA Club World Cup | 1 |
“I just think, Liverpool fans to me, someone who has been around for quite a while now, I’ve already regarded them as one of the most knowledgeable fans in the country, a kind of special place.
“I was shocked to hear it, I knew there would be a few people and I think Trent Alexander-Arnold felt the same way.
“There was bound to be a little bit of a reaction but he was shocked and the other players were shocked by the strength of the reaction.
“I get that a lot of fans are upset but it also true I think that it is also true that there was almost kind of fight and squabbles amongst fans, sort of like ‘what the hell are you doing?’
There was almost a bit of civil war between supporters, they are split down the middle with it, probably a generational thing, between the older school and the younger fans, who just see it one way.”
Slot should bench Alexander-Arnold going forward
Slot spoke after the contest about putting Alexander-Arnold on because he felt that was the best way to beat Mikel Arteta’s side.
The Dutchman has not got much wrong since replacing Jurgen Klopp in the dugout but subbing the departing ace on was definitely a mistake.
The exit-bound star should be left on the bench for the remaining matches of the campaign, he should be a part of the celebrations for what he has done for the L4 outfit, however, he should not play a part again.