Liverpool star Mohamed Salah has publicly criticized a section of the club’s fanbase for booing teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold during his substitute appearance in Sunday’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal at Anfield. The jeers came in Alexander-Arnold’s first appearance since announcing his impending departure from the Premier League champions at the end of the season, with a widely anticipated move to Real Madrid on the cards once his contract expires in June.
Speaking to Sky Sports on Friday, Salah expressed his disappointment and surprise at the reaction towards the England right-back, who has two remaining matches for his boyhood club against Brighton today and Crystal Palace on May 25th.
“Absolutely. I was surprised because this is not how we act as Liverpool fans,” the Egyptian forward told Gary Neville. “I think somehow the fans were being harsh with him. I think he didn’t deserve it at the time, he deserved the fans to treat him the best way possible because he gave it all to the fans.”
Salah, who himself was involved in a protracted contract negotiation this season before ultimately signing a new two-year deal, urged Liverpool supporters to show Alexander-Arnold more respect in his final two games for the club.
“Imagine someone who gives you his all for 20 years. It shouldn’t be like this,” Salah stated passionately. “I hope that will change next game, against Brighton or in the last game of the season, because he deserves the farewell.”
Liverpool-born Alexander-Arnold, who made his senior debut for the Reds in 2016, has amassed an impressive 353 appearances for the club across all competitions, scoring 23 goals. During his time at Anfield, the 26-year-old has been instrumental in Liverpool’s success, winning two Premier League titles, the Champions League, the FA Cup, and the League Cup.
Salah admitted that saying goodbye to one of his close friends at the end of the season will be an emotional experience. “I told him yesterday, don’t give me eye contact in your farewell. I really love him. I think he deserves the best farewell leaving the club,” he revealed.
“He has done a lot for the city and done a lot for the club, and he’s one of probably the best players in the club’s history. He gave it all. I think he needed a new challenge. He spoke to me about it. It’s his decision for sure. He’s 25, 26 years old and won it all twice or three times. What more can he have done?” Salah concluded, clearly showing his support and understanding for Alexander-Arnold’s decision.
Salah’s strong words highlight the mixed emotions surrounding Alexander-Arnold’s departure and set the stage for what will likely be an emotional farewell in his final two appearances for Liverpool.
