Trent Alexander-Arnold returned to Anfield on Sunday for the first time since announcing his decision to leave Liverpool—and was met with boos from a section of the home support. The reaction drew strong condemnation from current teammate Andrew Robertson and club legend Jamie Carragher, who both expressed disappointment over how the 26-year-old was treated.
Hostile Homecoming for Trent Alexander-Arnold
The right-back, who recently confirmed he will depart Liverpool at the end of the season amid strong links to Real Madrid, came off the bench in the 67th minute during Liverpool’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal. Despite his years of service and silverware—including two Premier League titles and a Champions League crown—some fans made their feelings clear with loud jeers each time he touched the ball.
It was a rare sight at Anfield: a local lad, academy graduate, and club vice-captain booed by his own people.
Although parts of the crowd did applaud the England international, the boos were louder and more persistent, particularly during Arsenal’s spirited second-half comeback.
Robertson: “It’s not nice to see a friend get booed”
Liverpool captain Andrew Robertson did not hold back when asked about the treatment of his long-time teammate.
“For Trent, it hasn’t been an easy one. Of course it’s not,” Robertson said post-match. “But he’s made the decision. It’s not nice to see a friend get booed. We can’t tell people how to act, but I’m extremely proud of him. I love him as a player, and I love him as a friend. He will be missed.”
Robertson’s comments highlight the emotional toll the situation is taking within the dressing room. The two defenders have played alongside each other for years, sharing not just the highs of major titles but also the responsibility of leadership on and off the pitch.
Carragher: “Booing your own is not for me”
Former Liverpool centre-back Jamie Carragher, now a prominent pundit, also voiced his disapproval live on television.
“That’s the story of the game,” Carragher said. “That’s what we’ll be talking about on the back pages tomorrow. I understand there’s a lot of frustration, but booing a player wearing the red shirt—trying to help the team—that’s not the Liverpool way.”
“I don’t know about a sendoff, he’s choosing to leave” @carra23 didn’t agree with Liverpool fans booing Trent Alexander-Arnold, but doesn’t think he should be given a special sendoff either pic.twitter.com/YwKXEzCWCO
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 11, 2025
Carragher acknowledged the emotional weight behind Alexander-Arnold’s impending exit, especially given his roots in the city and his rise through the club’s ranks. But for the Kop hero, public backlash against a current player during a live game was a step too far.
Slot’s Signal for the Future
New manager Arne Slot made a bold call by benching Alexander-Arnold, opting instead for 21-year-old Conor Bradley. The move was seen as a symbolic nod to the future, especially as Bradley is widely viewed as the heir to the right-back role.
The Anfield faithful took note—chanting Bradley’s name during the match while jeering the player he may soon replace. It was a harsh moment in what has already been an emotionally turbulent week for Liverpool.
Slot, speaking before the match, had said he wouldn’t tell supporters how to respond. But the reception surely left a sour taste for a player who’s given his all for the club since his debut.
Mixed Emotions Amid a Spirited Draw
Liverpool had raced to a 2-0 lead against Arsenal, only for the Gunners to mount a spirited comeback and snatch a draw despite going down to 10 men. But the biggest talking point wasn’t the result—it was the atmosphere.
For a club with such a rich tradition of unity, the split in support was jarring. On one side, fans feeling betrayed by Alexander-Arnold’s decision. On the other, teammates and legends urging respect and gratitude.
The divide may only widen as the season winds down, especially with Alexander-Arnold expected to finalize his move to Spain in the summer.
For now, though, the message from inside the Liverpool camp is clear: You don’t boo your own.
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