Trent Alexander-Arnold’s ‘Summer of 66’ themed bash at the club’s training ground has sparked outrage among some fans.
The right-back, who has been with the Reds for two decades, will depart Anfield, with Real Madrid being his eventual destination. The England star has faced criticism from some supporters for leaving on a free transfer, accusing him of disloyalty after starting his career at Liverpool.
He was met with boos from a section of the crowd when he was about to come on against Arsenal earlier this month. With only two more potential games left – an away game at Brighton on Monday night and a home fixture against Crystal Palace on May 25 – Alexander-Arnold is gearing up for his final departure.
Over the weekend, he arranged a festival for his team-mates, their families and Liverpool staff at the AXA training centre, complete with a barbecue, circus performers and flamethrowers.
A ‘kids’ zone’ featuring crazy golf and cakes was also part of the event, with the ‘Summer of 66’ theme referencing his Liverpool shirt number/
Manager Arne Slot, along with team-mates Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez, Andy Robertson and Virgil van Dijk, were spotted at the celebration.
According to The Athletic, the party was personally organised by Alexander-Arnold as a token of gratitude to the club, its staff and his team-mates.
Despite Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure to a European rival on a free transfer, some fans have expressed their discontent over the club sanctioning a farewell party, with critical voices emerging on social media.
One fan expressed disbelief on Twitter, stating: “He’s not retiring, he’s leaving to join another club. Since when has this been celebrated?”
Another supporter voiced their confusion, commenting: “Baffling who signed off on that Trent party at the training ground. Embarrassing.”
A third supporter shared their discomfort, remarking: “Think this is a bit odd me,” and continued, “It’s embarrassing from the club imo. Celebrating a player leaving the club is wild whatever way you look at it.”
Alexander-Arnold himself acknowledged the difficulty of his decision to leave Liverpool, penning a heartfelt message: “After 20 years at Liverpool Football Club, now is the time for me to confirm that I will be leaving at the end of the season.
“This is easily the hardest decision I’ve ever made in my life. This club has been my whole life – my whole world – for 20 years.
“From the Academy right through until now, the support and love I have felt from everyone inside and outside of the club will stay with me forever. I will forever be in debt to you all. My love for this club will never die.”
