The saga surrounding Trent Alexander-Arnold’s impending move to Real Madrid has escalated significantly just days after his public announcement confirming his departure from Liverpool at the end of the season.

According to reports from Defensa Central, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez has personally intervened, contacting the England international full-back amid mounting criticism and hostility from certain sections of the Liverpool fanbase.

The situation has deteriorated rapidly. Following the release of Alexander-Arnold’s farewell message on social media, a wave of anger has surged across parts of Merseyside.

Instances of supporters burning his shirt, issuing online abuse, threatening to remove murals dedicated to him, and fierce media scrutiny have all contributed to an increasingly toxic atmosphere.

For many fans, the nature of his departure — leaving on a free transfer to join a European rival — has been perceived as a deep betrayal, despite Alexander-Arnold’s years of loyalty and the role he played in securing major honours for the club.

Pérez lends his support

Amid such a volatile backdrop, Pérez is reported to have reached out to Alexander-Arnold with a message of reassurance and encouragement.

The Real Madrid president has urged the defender to remain composed and focus on the future, assuring him that the current storm will soon pass.

Pérez, seasoned in managing the pressure surrounding high-profile arrivals at the Santiago Bernabéu, took a similar stance back in 1999 when Steve McManaman made the same move from Liverpool to Madrid on a free transfer.

Carragher voices his opinion

Adding further layers to the developing story, Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has publicly addressed the issue. While acknowledging Alexander-Arnold’s right to shape his career path, Carragher also defended supporters who feel let down.

“Liverpool fans like Trent, but Trent is going to Real Madrid. Let him do what he wants — it’s his career. That’s fine, I wish him luck. But Liverpool fans can also feel however they want about this situation,” Carragher stated.

From Real Madrid’s perspective, the acquisition of Alexander-Arnold is regarded as a significant strategic success — a world-class full-back in his prime, arriving without a transfer fee. His technical prowess, vision, and tactical adaptability align seamlessly with the club’s ambitions.

Nonetheless, the transition will not be without its challenges. Even before donning the iconic white shirt, Alexander-Arnold finds himself at the centre of controversy. With three Premier League fixtures still remaining in Liverpool colours, the atmosphere may yet become more fractious.