Trent Alexander-Arnold has confirmed he will leave Premier League champions Liverpool at the end of the season, bringing an end to a remarkable 20-year journey with his boyhood club.
The England international is widely expected to join Spanish giants Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer.
The 26-year-old right-back, who has been with the Reds since the age of six, announced his decision in a heartfelt message on social media.
“This is easily the hardest decision I’ve ever made in my life,” he wrote. “Liverpool has been my entire world for two decades – but I feel the time is right to step out of my comfort zone and embrace a new challenge.”
Liverpool Stalwart Bids Farewell After Glittering Career
Alexander-Arnold departs Anfield as one of the club’s most decorated homegrown players in recent history. Since making his senior debut in 2016, he has amassed 352 appearances, scored 23 goals, and played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s domestic and European success.
His honours include two Premier League titles (most recently under new boss Arne Slot), the 2019 Champions League, the 2022 FA Cup, two League Cups, the Club World Cup and the UEFA Super Cup.
Liverpool released a statement thanking Alexander-Arnold for his immense contribution, stating: “He will depart with our deepest gratitude and appreciation for playing such a central role in a sustained period of success.”
Real Madrid Move Motivated by Ambition, Not Finances
Despite the club’s efforts to retain him, including an offer that would have made him one of the highest-paid defenders in Premier League history, Alexander-Arnold was drawn by the prospect of a new challenge and the prestige of wearing the famous white shirt of Real Madrid.
Sources close to the negotiations confirm the defender’s move to Madrid is motivated more by ambition than finance, although his salary will be bolstered by a significant commercial and image rights package.
“It’s about pushing myself professionally and personally,” said Alexander-Arnold, who is expected to sign with the Spanish champions in the coming weeks.
Vice-Captaincy Change and Liverpool’s Future
With his departure, Alexander-Arnold will relinquish the vice-captaincy at Liverpool, with Mohamed Salah tipped as the frontrunner to assume the role for the 2025/26 season. Salah recently penned a new two-year deal, followed shortly by fellow senior figure Virgil van Dijk.
The trio’s contract situations had dominated headlines during Arne Slot’s debut campaign at the helm. While Liverpool successfully tied down Salah and Van Dijk, Alexander-Arnold’s future remained uncertain—until now.
Decision Timed After Securing Title Glory
In his farewell message, Alexander-Arnold explained his decision to delay the announcement until after Liverpool sealed their 20th league title, ensuring the team’s focus remained on the pitch.
“Now that we’ve celebrated something truly special together, I felt it was time to speak honestly to the fans,” he said. “It’s been an honour to contribute to this club’s history.”
Negotiations and Final Decision
Real Madrid made an approach for Alexander-Arnold as early as January, but Liverpool rejected the bid, hoping to convince him to extend his stay.
Sporting director Richard Hughes engaged in months of dialogue with the defender’s representatives, but ultimately, a mutual decision was reached.
Hughes met with his agents for the final time in early spring, and the player subsequently informed Slot of his intention to move on.
Legacy of a Local Hero
While the move to Madrid marks a new chapter for Alexander-Arnold, it also closes one of the most inspiring homegrown stories in modern English football.
From academy prospect to Anfield icon, his departure leaves both a tactical and emotional void.
As he heads to Spain, Alexander-Arnold takes with him the admiration of fans, peers, and pundits alike—and the enduring legacy of a local lad who lived the Liverpool dream.
