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Beth Lindop
LIVERPOOL, England — Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso commented that it was “no problem” that Trent Alexander-Arnold faced hostility from Liverpool fans during his return to Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League.
Madrid suffered a 1-0 defeat at Anfield, with a goal from Alexis Mac Allister. Alexander-Arnold, who joined Madrid this summer after leaving Liverpool, was booed by the crowd upon his substitution in the 80th minute.
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“It was a highly intense match,” Alonso mentioned. “The atmosphere at Anfield during a Champions League clash is incredible. We needed [Alexander-Arnold’s] talent. His wing play was essential for us.”
“The reaction was expected. He is a professional and mature player, and he was prepared for it, so it was no issue.”
Liverpool manager Arne Slot also downplayed any influence of Alexander-Arnold’s presence on the game.
“I was amazed by the atmosphere the entire 90 minutes; it was evident even before kickoff,” the Dutch manager said. “The fans supported us throughout the match, not just when Trent was playing.”
Having made 354 appearances for Liverpool since graduating from their academy in 2015, Alexander-Arnold enjoyed significant success, winning two Premier League titles and the Champions League. However, he faced criticism from fans towards the end of last season, prompting former manager Jurgen Klopp to express his disappointment.
Despite the passage of time, the animosity persists.
The word “rat” was sprayed over a mural honoring Alexander-Arnold, located near Liverpool’s ground. Although the vandalism was cleaned before the match, he still faced further jeers from the crowd as he warmed up in the second half.
After the game, when asked if he had spoken to Alexander-Arnold, Slot replied: “Only briefly afterwards. I gave him a hug. I’m not sure what was said, but it wasn’t a lot.”
“Every time I see him, I will either give him a hug or talk to him because he has been very special to me both as a player and as a human being.”
This report includes information from The Associated Press.