Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold
Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold (Image: Getty Images)
There are plenty of raw emotions surrounding Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold's imminent exit from Anfield this summer. These spilt out from the terraces on Sunday when the full-back was jeered onto the pitch by some against Arsenal in the Premier League.
The manner in which Alexander-Arnold has chosen to depart Liverpool will be what hurts supporters the most with a free transfer hurting the club's ability to replace him.
Moving to Real Madrid is another kick in the teeth and while it is not as bad as joining a Premier League rival, it still stings when the two clubs have long been adversaries on the European stage.
Looking at the situation from Alexander-Arnold's point of view, you can see why he may wish to leave. A chance to take in a new culture and new surroundings for him and his family due to the riches at Madrid's disposal.
Trent Alexander-Arnold sat on the substitutes bench during Liverpool's game against Arsenal
However, on Thursday night, the true extent of his decision will have hit home. Alexander-Arnold is leaving a club that is on a high after winning a 20th league title to match Manchester United's record despite all the odds stacked against Arne Slot when he arrived.
They are now heading into the summer transfer window full of vigour and looking to do some business which takes them to the next level. Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah have committed their futures to the club and are ready to pass on the torch to the next generation once that time comes.
Meanwhile in Madrid, they are a club that is suffering. Last night, they lost the La Liga title race as Barcelona beat Espanyol 2-0.
Their fierce rivals have just won the domestic treble and have their heir to Lionel Messi - Lamine Yamal - hitting his stride earlier than the great Argentinian managed.
Alexander-Arnold is about to enter a club that is reeling and will be going through a transition of change next season with Carlo Ancelotti moving on and Xabi Alonso taking the wheel.
Lamine Yamal celebrates scoring for Barcelona as they won La Liga
Lamine Yamal celebrates scoring for Barcelona as they won La Liga (Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)
But their fanbase does not expect another season without success. One full season playing second fiddle to Barca across the board is too much for them to stomach so the pressure surrounding the club will be high.
Alexander-Arnold will know now just what he has let himself in for by choosing Los Blancos over the Reds.
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