Trent Alexander-Arnold was booed by some Liverpool fans during Sunday’s draw with Arsenal, with Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer among those to criticise the reaction
Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker thought the boos aimed at Trent Alexander-Arnold by Liverpool supporters on Sunday crossed the line. The negative reaction followed the full-back’s announcement that he is to leave the club at the end of the season, with a free transfer to Real Madrid widely expected.
The 26-year-old came on as second half substitute during Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal, only to be met with a smattering of boos from sections of the home crowd. In addition, chants of “There’s only one Conor Bradley” and references to Steven Gerrard rang through the stands, highlighting the discontent among fans about Alexander-Arnold’s looming exit.
His treatment, both on Merseyside and across social media, has sparked divided opinions from fans, pundits, and commentators alike. Nonetheless, Shearer, Lineker, and podcast co-host Micah Richards were in total agreement about the situation.
“There were a lot of boos, and it grated on me. I didn’t like that,” Lineker admitted on The Rest Is Football. “After what he’s done, he’s a local lad, he’s come through the ranks. He’s given everything, he’s won everything for that club.
“I understand they’ve got the hump, they’re losing one of their best players and they all talk about the fact he’s going for free. But footballers are not pieces of meat.
“It’s Real Madrid. It’s his life, his career. They’re incredible fans, Liverpool. And it wasn’t all the fans [who booed], but on that occasion I found that a bit disappointing.”
Richards added: “I was at the game, to be fair there were a lot of people clapping [Alexander-Arnold]… I asked Jamie Carragher what’s different about being at a club like Liverpool, and he said, basically it’s like Liverpool against the world.
“So when they leave it’s seen almost like a disrespect because no player is above the club. It was nice to get that insight. But at the end of the day, he’s made that decision. They have to respect that decision. He’s going to one of the best football clubs in world football.
“To see him booed when he came on, it was just not a nice moment in football. I love Liverpool fans… I always give them credit. But it left a sour taste in the mouth, especially for one of their own.”
Shearer agreed, saying: “I didn’t like that. I don’t like fans booing players, [especially] after what he’s done for Liverpool. I understand it might be a minority. I totally admire and respect Liverpool fans… but whoever the ones were who were booing him, come on, really?
“Is it that bad that they have to boo someone from their area, that’s chosen to do what he wants to do after doing what he’s done for Liverpool. Not a good look for me… not good. I don’t like it all.”
For months, speculation has swirled around Alexander-Arnold’s future, with strong suggestions pointing toward a switch to the Bernabeu once his deal expires this summer. The notion of losing a local hero for nothing has left a number of Liverpool fans feeling disappointed.
Still, others believe supporters should show understanding for the player’s decision – particularly since he’s a homegrown talent who has won every major honour available with the Reds, and isn’t heading to a domestic rival.
While time may mellow the reaction, and perhaps turn frustration into appreciation, the atmosphere remains tense for now. Liverpool next face Brighton away on Monday, May 19, before hosting Crystal Palace the following weekend in what will be their final home fixture of the season. That match may offer fans a final opportunity to show Alexander-Arnold how they truly feel – whether with warmth or lingering hostility remains to be seen.
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