Trent Alexander-Arnold’s decision to leave Liverpool at the end of the season has left players “gutted”, according to captain Virgil van Dijk.
The England international came off the bench in the 67th minute during Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday – just days after announcing he would not renew his contract, which expires next month.
Despite his 20-year association with the club, Alexander-Arnold was met with boos upon his introduction and with each subsequent touch of the ball.
The reception caught many by surprise, given the defender’s key role in Liverpool’s modern era of success, including Premier League and Champions League titles.
At full-time, teammates Luis Díaz, Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo showed visible support, with Díaz offering a consoling arm and the latter pair appearing frustrated by the crowd’s reaction.
Van Dijk addressed the situation post-match, underlining both the disappointment within the squad and their support for Alexander-Arnold as he prepares for a likely move abroad – with Real Madrid widely reported as the leading destination.
“We are gutted that he’s not here with us next year because he’s a fantastic player with outstanding, exceptional qualities that we have seen over the last seven years,” said Van Dijk.
“The (crowd) reaction happened. He has to deal with it. We as a team have to deal with that as well. I wasn’t really expecting something, to be honest, but I think maybe he expected this. It’s not easy, not at all. We’re here for him anyway.”
