Liverpool fans have heeded Arne Slot and Jurgen Klopp’s instructions for Trent Alexander-Arnold’s final game at Anfield.
The right-back was named in the Liverpool squad for the final time before he leaves the club as a free agent this summer. A move to Real Madrid looks set to be his next step, although when he’ll officially join Los Blancos is yet to be decided.
Liverpool fans have made their feelings clear over Alexander-Arnold’s departure since he announced his decision earlier this month. The academy graduate was booed by some supporters in his first game after his exit was confirmed against Arsenal, leading to backlash from some pundits, with Jamie Carragher among those not comfortable with the reaction.
The 26-year-old was then left on the bench by Slot against Brighton, with Alexander-Arnold spotted looking despondent as supporters continued to celebrate the Premier League title triumph at full-time.
Ahead of his final game as a Liverpool player, both Slot and Klopp called upon supporters to hold back in their shows of displeasure. Alexander-Arnold was clapped as he warmed up and his name was also applauded when the teams were read out before the game.
And when he was introduced at half time in place of Conor Bradley, Alexander-Arnold received a smattering of applause and a cheer from the home fans.
Slot first made the call in his press conference on Friday, before his predecessor made his feelings known at a gala for the LFC Foundation.
"I’m not saying don’t be disappointed but don’t forget what he’s done for this club," Klopp said. "I heard the booing, I switched the TV off. I couldn’t have been more disappointed. This isn’t us."
Jurgen Klopp and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Jurgen Klopp and Trent Alexander-Arnold. (Image: Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Slot would then go on to reiterate his view that Alexander-Arnold should still be afforded a positive reception on his final outing as a Liverpool player in his program notes ahead of facing Crystal Palace.
"The hard work and effort, the commitment and the devotion that has been put in not just this season but also in the years before is why we are in the position to make today every bit as special as we all could wish for,” Slot said.
"This means it is a day for unity and celebration. Nothing can be allowed to get in the way. Whatever might divide us can wait for another day. Whatever could distract us can be put to one side.
"This is one of the biggest days in the modern history of Liverpool Football Club, so it makes sense that we all contribute to making it as positive as it can be and enjoy it as much as possible. Again, nothing else matters.
Arne Slot embraces Trent Alexander-Arnold after Liverpool was confirmed as Premier League champion.
Arne Slot embraces Trent Alexander-Arnold after Liverpool was confirmed as Premier League champion. (Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
"The reason I am saying this is I am as aware as anyone of the situation around Trent [Alexander-Arnold] and I know because these feelings have been made clear that there are some of you who would prefer for him not to be involved today.
"The first thing I have to make clear is that whatever your view, we all want what is best for this club and it is always so, so important that we all remember this.”
Slot added: "The future can and will look after itself and we will move on as a club, just as Liverpool always has. But in the here and now, every single player who has worn a red shirt this season by being part of this team and helped us become champions can only have my appreciation.
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"This is why I strongly believe that every player who falls into this category deserves today to be as special as it possibly can be.
"I have the exact same feelings about our supporters. You deserve this day as much as anyone. Just as against Tottenham on the day we won the league, I want everything to be as close to perfect as possible. This is why I believe differences are for another day."