Mohamed Salah has publicly criticized Liverpool fans for their “harsh” treatment of Trent Alexander-Arnold following the defender’s announcement that he will leave the Premier League champions at the end of the 2024-25 season.
Fans Boo Alexander-Arnold During Anfield Appearance
Alexander-Arnold, who is widely expected to join Real Madrid after his contract expires in June, was jeered by Liverpool supporters when he came on as a second-half substitute in Liverpool’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday.
Salah Defends Alexander-Arnold
Speaking to Gary Neville on Sky Sports, Salah expressed disappointment over the fans’ reaction.
“Absolutely. I was surprised because this is not how we act as Liverpool fans. I think somehow the fans were being harsh with him. He didn’t deserve it at the time; he deserved the fans to treat him the best way possible because he gave it all to the fans.”
Call for a Respectful Farewell
Salah urged Liverpool supporters to give Alexander-Arnold a respectful farewell in his last two home games against Brighton and Crystal Palace, saying,
“Imagine someone who gives you his all for 20 years. It shouldn’t be like this. I hope that will change next game, against Brighton or in the last game of the season, because he deserves the farewell.”
Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool Legacy
Born in Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold debuted for the Reds’ first team in 2016 and has since made 353 senior appearances, scoring 23 goals. The 26-year-old has been instrumental in Liverpool’s success, winning two Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, the FA Cup, and the League Cup.
Emotional Goodbye Between Friends
Salah, who himself recently signed a new two-year contract after a season-long negotiation saga, revealed the emotional bond between him and Alexander-Arnold.
“I told him yesterday don’t give me eye contact in your farewell. I really love him. He deserves the best farewell leaving the club. He has done a lot for the city and done a lot for the club and he’s one of probably the best players in the club’s history. He gave it all.”
“I think he needed a new challenge. He spoke to me about it. It’s his decision for sure. He’s 25, 26 years old and won it all twice or three times. What more can he have done?”
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