Defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has announced he will be leaving Liverpool, the club he joined as a six-year-old, describing the decision as the most difficult of his life.
The England international confirmed his departure on the social media platform X on Monday. His exit comes amid strong speculation linking him with a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid, who reportedly made an offer for the player shortly before the January transfer window opened.
Born in Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold progressed through the club’s youth system to become one of the world’s leading right-backs. During his time with the Reds, he won two Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, and the FIFA Club World Cup.
Now 26, he has often been deployed in a hybrid midfield role in recent seasons, operating as a full-back without the ball and moving centrally during attacking phases.
Since making his senior debut in 2016, Alexander-Arnold has made 352 appearances for Liverpool, scoring 23 goals and collecting eight major honours, including this season’s Premier League title.
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Although discussions over a contract extension had taken place, Alexander-Arnold opted to leave the club, unlike team-mates Mohamed Salah and captain Virgil van Dijk, who recently signed new deals.
“Alexander-Arnold will depart with our gratitude and appreciation for his contribution during a sustained period of success,” the club said in an official statement.
Speaking about his decision, Alexander-Arnold said he hoped it would not overshadow the remainder of Liverpool’s season.
“I just hope we can continue winning matches and that the noise surrounding my decision doesn’t detract from what we’ve accomplished this season,” he said.
“It’s been an incredible campaign. I’m proud to have been part of it, and I hope people can focus on celebrating the achievements of the rest of the squad rather than dwelling on my departure.”
