mirror.co.uk

Virgil van Dijk’s true thoughts on Trent Alexander-Arnold as training footage emerges

Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to bid an emotional farewell to Liverpool this summer and Reds captain Virgil van Dijk was on hand to say goodbye in an impromptu training ground speech

Comments

Sport

15:30, 25 May 2025

Trent Alexander-Arnold gave an impromptu speech to his team-mates

(Image: Liverpool FC)

Virgil van Dijk thanked Trent Alexander-Arnold ‘from the bottom of his heart’ in a heartwarming farewell speech. The Liverpool defender is set to depart this summer having announced that he will not be signing a new deal.

His next club has yet to be announced, but the Reds have made sure to give their academy graduate a fond goodbye. And that continued in their final training session of the season, with Van Dijk giving a speech.

Speaking to the outgoing Alexander-Arnold, the Dutch centre-back said: “Right Trent, we all knew this day was coming. The boys, I would like to speak for everyone here, we want to thank you for all that you’ve done in your time at Liverpool, the success that we had.

“The good moments together on and off the pitch. We’re all definitely going to miss you. An outstanding player, a very good human being.

“We wish you well and listen, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for everything that you’ve done here. All the best. We have a little something for you.”

READ MORE: Jurgen Klopp calling Liverpool's title win 'nearly perfect' sums up how much has changedREAD MORE: Mohamed Salah showed true colours with emotional tribute to 'best friend' leaving Liverpool

After being handed over a framed Liverpool shirt donning his number as a present, Alexander-Arnold then followed up with a speech of his own. He added: "I'm just eternally grateful for everything that I've been given.

"We all dream of these moments but, for me, it feels even more special because I've been here 20 years. It's an amazing chapter of my life - it's been my whole life - it's been everything I've ever worked for - dreamt for.

"To share it with you guys and create these bonds, a lot of the lads, especially these guys here [Van Dijk, Mo Salah, Andy Robertson and Alisson Becker], have seen me transition from a boy to a man. The bonds and the brotherhood I've got with you guys will remain with me forever.

Virgil van Dijk, Alisson Becker and Trent Alexander-Arnold

Virgil van Dijk, Alisson Becker and Trent Alexander-Arnold

Who should Liverpool sign this summer? Share your thoughts in the comments below

"I've got stories and memories I'll be able to tell kids and grandkids. I wasn't prepared for this, but I appreciate it, I appreciate all of you for everything."

Alexander-Arnold is widely expected to be announced as a Real Madrid player over the coming weeks. The Spanish side have been chasing his services for months, and are still attempting to sign him early so he can play in this summer’s Club World Cup. The tournament gets underway on June 15, albeit Alexander-Arnold’s contract does not expire until the end of the month.

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

Read full news in source page