Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has confirmed he will leave the new Premier League champions at the end of the season.
The 26-year-old, who joined Liverpool at age six, announced his decision in an emotional message on social media.
“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,” he stated.
His departure had been anticipated given his contract is set to expire on 30 June. Expected to join Real Madrid, Alexander-Arnold described his choice as “easily the hardest decision I’ve ever made in my life.”
Despite speculation around his future, the club had hoped he would sign a new deal, like teammates Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk who recently extended their contracts.
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Over his remarkable career at Anfield, Alexander-Arnold made 352 appearances, scored 23 goals, and provided 86 assists. He played a crucial role in Liverpool’s recent title win under manager Arne Slot, adding another league trophy to his collection.
Furthermore, he helped Liverpool claim the 2019-20 Premier League title under Jurgen Klopp, along with the 2019 Champions League, the 2022 FA Cup, and two League Cups.
In his farewell message, Alexander-Arnold expressed deep gratitude for the support he received throughout his journey. “This club has been my whole life – my whole world – for 20 years,” he shared.
He also acknowledged the love and encouragement from both inside and outside the club as he promised to carry those memories forever.
Liverpool, in their response, thanked Alexander-Arnold for his contributions during a period of sustained success. While the club tried to retain him, negotiations did not result in a contract extension.
Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, held multiple talks with the player’s representatives, but the defender stood firm on seeking a new challenge.
The England right-back explained he delayed announcing his departure to avoid distracting the team during their title race.
“I felt personally the focus should always be on the pitch, should always be about the football,” he said. Once Liverpool secured their 20th top-flight title, he believed it was the right moment to share his decision.
Liverpool had rejected Real Madrid’s approach for Alexander-Arnold in January, hoping to convince him to stay. However, despite constructive negotiations, he informed manager Arne Slot of his final decision earlier this spring.
Tags: Trent Alexander-Arnold, #TAA, #YNWA, #COYR, Liverpool, Anfield, Arne Slot, Real Madrid, #LFC, #PremierLeague.
