Winger has said the manner of his welcome won’t change his feelings towards the club
A mural of Trent Alexander-Arnold has been defaced ahead of Liverpool’s Champions League match against Real Madrid.
The right-back joined the La Liga giants on what was essentially a free transfer in the summer, after running down his Liverpool contract.
Many fans felt disappointed at the departure of a homegrown talent who had been at the club 21 years. After the official announcement that he would be leaving, Alexander-Arnold was booed in one of his final appearances at Anfield.
As the winger prepares for an early return to the stadium with his new club, there seems to be no love lost as far as some fans are concerned. His mural near the stadium had the word “rat” written on it, with white paint also smeared over it.
Alexander-Arnold has previously said the manner of his reception won’t change his feelings towards the club.
“Whatever way I’m received is the decision of the fans,” said Alexander-Arnold. “I’ll always love the club, I’ll always be a fan of the club.
“I’ll always be thankful for the opportunities and the things we achieved together. They’ll live with me for ever.”
Madrid manager Xabi Alonso wants the defender to ignore the noise and enjoy his return to his boyhood club.
“I remember him from a young age in the academy and then coming to the first team and winning the Champions League,” said Alonso. “So he needs to enjoy the moment because it is nice to be back.”
Liverpool manager Arne Slot said he would welcome his former vice-captain back warmly.
“I can only tell you what kind of reception he gets from me,” said Slot. “I have great memories of the player and the human being.
“He was my vice-captain last season and I have memories of working with him which were only positive. I can remember multiple great moments of his in a Liverpool shirt.
“He will get a warm welcome from me. Let’s first wait and see if he is on the pitch tomorrow. How the fans react, I have no clue, but he gets a warm welcome from me, that’s for sure.”
