Liverpool, England — Liverpool’s manager, Arne Slot, has appealed to the club’s supporters to refrain from expressing any negative emotions towards Trent Alexander-Arnold during their upcoming game against Arsenal. This will be the first match since the announcement that the Liverpool and England international star will be departing Anfield at the season’s conclusion.
Alexander-Arnold has acknowledged that his decision might upset certain sections of the fans. Some supporters could be displeased that he has chosen to let his contract run its course, leaving the club unable to profit from a transfer involving one of their key players.
At a press conference held on Friday, Slot expressed his views without dictating how the fans should feel, but emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive atmosphere as the team concludes its season. Despite understanding the disappointment felt across the team and fanbase, he underscored Alexander-Arnold’s desire to minimize distractions.
Slot noted, “Trent has made clear that he wishes for the team and club to remain focused and undistracted by his announcement. I hope the energy on Sunday is directed towards supporting the players and minimal focus is placed on Trent—unless it’s in a supportive manner.”
The manager has indicated that Conor Bradley is poised to take the right-back position ahead of Alexander-Arnold in the match against Arsenal. Slot remains tight-lipped about Alexander-Arnold’s next career move, widely speculated to be a transfer to Real Madrid, as the Club World Cup looms in mid-June.
With a knowing smile, Slot remarked, “Has Trent disclosed his next destination? He has only mentioned his departure from our club. I can’t confirm where he’s heading, and while my smile might suggest an understanding, it remains unsaid, making it impossible for me to comment.”