Liverpool’s newly-appointed manager, Arne Slot, has expressed deep disappointment following the official announcement that star right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold will depart the club at the end of the current season. The 26-year-old defender, who has been with the Reds since his youth days, confirmed earlier in the week that he would not be renewing his contract, which expires in June.
Alexander-Arnold’s decision has sparked widespread discussion across the footballing world, with strong indications suggesting a likely move to Spanish giants Real Madrid, particularly after helping Liverpool reclaim the Premier League title this season. Speaking during a pre-match press conference on Friday, Slot admitted that the news has left both the club and its supporters saddened, describing the England international as not only an exceptional footballer but also a remarkable personality within the dressing room.
“Like everyone who holds Liverpool close to their heart, we are disappointed to see Trent go,” Slot said. “It’s not just that a top-class full-back is leaving — we’re also losing a genuinely good human being. He’s been part of this club’s fabric for years, and his absence will be felt both on and off the pitch.”
While Slot has not yet had a detailed conversation with the player since the news broke, he confirmed that they exchanged messages via WhatsApp and plan to speak in person later on Friday to discuss the fallout and the emotional weight of the decision.
Alexander-Arnold himself described the move as “easily the hardest decision I’ve ever made in my life,” a sentiment echoed by fans who have received the news with mixed emotions, ranging from gratitude for his contributions to disappointment over his exit.
Slot, who previously managed Dutch sides AZ Alkmaar and Feyenoord, noted that losing key players is not a new experience for him and hinted at Liverpool’s ability to bounce back. “I’ve worked at clubs where top talents left every season, and you just learn to adapt. The reality in football is that when one great player departs, another often rises to the occasion. That’s the challenge and beauty of managing at the top level.”
Liverpool are set to face title rivals Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday in what could be one of Alexander-Arnold’s final appearances for the club. The fixture holds major implications in the ongoing Premier League race, with Arsenal currently sitting in second place.
