Liverpool full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold received a mixed reception when he was brought on against Arsenal on Sunday
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13:06, 14 May 2025
Paul Merson has given his view on Trent Alexander-Arnold and the boos he received by some Liverpool supporters
Paul Merson has given his view on Trent Alexander-Arnold and the boos he received by some Liverpool supporters
Paul Merson believes Liverpool supporters who booed Trent Alexander-Arnold on Sunday will be regretting their decision to do so. The former Arsenal and England forward is the latest high-profile pundit to give his view on the controversial scenes.
Alexander-Arnold was introduced as a second-half substitute during the clash with Arsenal at Anfield and received a mixed reception from the supporters in attendance.
The right-back confirmed ahead of the game that he would be leaving the club at the end of the season when his contract expires. Real Madrid are expected to be his next team.
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Sections of the fanbase have reacted to the news in different ways, although plenty decided to vocalise their disappointment with the vice-captain in the form of jeers. Fierce debate about the reaction has followed.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson suggested it was a shame to see the animosity and that he can understand why Alexander-Arnold is making the move.
"I felt disappointed for the kid," he said. "This kid is a top-drawer player, he has been at the club since he was a kid.
"He has given everything and won everything at the club. He has been a massive part of that.
"This is Real Madrid. I know Liverpool are a big club but no one turns Real Madrid down, I don't think anyone has ever turned them down.
"I think people [who booed] afterwards will have thought, 'why did I do that?'. I think someone has listened to someone else and everyone has joined in.
"When you look back on it, you should be clapping the kid. The kid is top player, you've watched him for the last however many years win every trophy you can win in the game.
"I'm disappointed. If he was going to a Man United, Everton, Arsenal or Chelsea then I'd understand. But when he's going to Real Madrid? He's given that club [Liverpool] everything he has got."
With the most recent title win, Alexander-Arnold has won two Premier Leagues, the Champions League, the FA Cup and the League Cup with Liverpool.