Liverpool vice-captain and fan favourite, Trent Alexander-Arnold, has announced that he will leave the club at the end of the current season, with reports linking him to a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid.
The 26-year-old England international confirmed the news in an emotional post on social media on Monday, calling it “the hardest decision” of his life.
“After 20 years at Liverpool Football Club, now is the time for me to confirm that I will be leaving at the end of the season,” Alexander-Arnold wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
“This club has been my whole life – my whole world – for 20 years. I will forever be in debt to you all. My love for this club will never die.”
Alexander-Arnold, who joined Liverpool’s academy as a six-year-old, made his senior debut in 2016 and has since become one of the most successful full-backs in modern football. He has made 352 appearances, scored 23 goals, and won multiple trophies including the Champions League and two Premier League titles.
His departure comes just a week after Liverpool sealed their 20th league title, matching Manchester United’s all-time record, with a 5-1 win over Tottenham. The announcement also follows contract renewals by other senior players like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk.
Speaking further, Alexander-Arnold said the decision to leave was driven by a desire for “a new challenge.”
“Giving everything day in, day out for 20 years, I’ve got to a point now where I feel like I need a new change, a new challenge for me as a player and as a person,” he said.
Liverpool acknowledged the player’s immense contribution, stating: “Alexander-Arnold will depart with our gratitude and appreciation for his contribution during a sustained period of success.”
Though not officially confirmed, his expected move to Real Madrid has stirred debate among Liverpool supporters. While many appreciate his ambition, others hoped he would become a lifelong club legend.
Known for his creativity, long-range passes, and dangerous set-pieces, Alexander-Arnold leaves behind a mural near Anfield with the words: “I’m just a normal lad from Liverpool whose dream has just come true.”
He is expected to feature in Liverpool’s remaining league matches and will take part in the club’s Premier League trophy parade on May 26, giving fans a final chance to say good-bye
