Trent Alexander-Arnold has officially announced he will leave Liverpool at the end of the 2024/25 season, ending a two-decade spell with his boyhood club and setting the stage for a high-profile move to Real Madrid. The 26-year-old confirmed the news through his social media channels on Monday, describing it as “the hardest decision” of his life.
The England international, who has made over 350 appearances for Liverpool, informed head coach Arne Slot of his decision in March but kept it under wraps to avoid derailing the club’s Premier League title charge. Liverpool went on to clinch a record-extending 20th title, but Alexander-Arnold’s future was already sealed behind the scenes.
Real Madrid Move on the Horizon
According to reports from Spain, Alexander-Arnold has already agreed in principle to a five-year contract with Real Madrid, believed to be worth £7.5 million per year after tax. Though Liverpool rejected a £20 million bid from the Spanish giants in January, they have now accepted that the full-back will depart on a free transfer once his contract expires on June 30.
While Liverpool are disappointed to lose a player they developed from the age of six, the club is said to respect his desire for a new challenge. They made every effort to retain him — including offering a contract that would have made him the highest-paid full-back in the Premier League — but Alexander-Arnold ultimately felt it was time to step outside his comfort zone.
“This club has been my whole life – my whole world – for 20 years,” he said in an emotional statement. “I’ve given my all every single day I’ve been at this club, and I hope you feel like I’ve given back to you during my time here… My love for this club will never die.”
After 20 years at Liverpool Football Club, now is the time for me to confirm that I will be leaving at the end of the season.
This is easily the hardest decision I’ve ever made in my life.
I know many of you have wondered why or been frustrated that I haven’t spoken about this… pic.twitter.com/emAw5RvXq0
— Trent Alexander-Arnold (@TrentAA) May 5, 2025
Loyalty vs. Legacy
The decision marks the end of an era for Liverpool, with Alexander-Arnold being a symbol of the club’s golden period under Jürgen Klopp. He lifted every major trophy with the Reds: the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup. His attacking prowess and playmaking ability redefined the full-back role and earned him worldwide admiration.
Yet his decision to move is not one rooted in dissatisfaction, but rather ambition. With Liverpool undergoing structural changes — including Klopp’s departure and Arne Slot’s arrival — Alexander-Arnold reportedly felt the timing was right to explore a new chapter.
His pending move to Real Madrid, a club synonymous with European glory, offers him the chance to compete for more Champions League titles and test himself in La Liga’s elite environment. It’s a transfer that has long felt like a matter of when, not if.
Liverpool’s Internal Challenges
Sources suggest part of the delay in Alexander-Arnold’s contract talks was down to internal turbulence at the club. Former sporting director Julian Ward left last year, and negotiations didn’t formally begin until Richard Hughes arrived in June 2024. Despite cordial talks throughout the process, it became increasingly clear by March that Alexander-Arnold was Madrid-bound.
With Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk recently extending their stays, Liverpool were faced with tough decisions regarding squad balance, wage structures, and long-term planning. In the end, keeping all three high-profile stars was financially and strategically unfeasible.
Still, the club showed understanding. In a statement, Liverpool said Alexander-Arnold “will depart with our gratitude and appreciation for his contribution during a sustained period of success.”
Farewell on a High Note
Alexander-Arnold will remain part of the Liverpool squad for the final three games of the season, culminating in what promises to be an emotional farewell at Anfield when the Reds lift the Premier League trophy against Crystal Palace on May 25.
The timing of his move to Madrid is still unclear, although Real will be eligible to register new signings for this summer’s expanded Club World Cup from June 1 to 10. Liverpool may still be entitled to a compensation fee if the move is finalised before his contract officially expires.
Until then, the boy from West Derby — who once walked out as a mascot at Anfield — will get one last chance to wear the red shirt he has donned with distinction for 20 years.
READ NEXT:
