Liverpool’s Slot Expresses Regret Over Alexander-Arnold’s Departure to Real Madrid

 Liverpool manager Arne Slot revealed on May 9, 2025, that the club “did everything we could” to retain star right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, who decided to leave for Real Madrid at the end of his contract in June 2025. 

Speaking before Liverpool’s Premier League clash with Arsenal, Slot expressed disappointment over the 26-year-old’s exit, marking the end of a 20-year association with the club where he made 310 appearances and won eight major trophies, including the 2019 Champions League and 2020 Premier League. Alexander-Arnold’s departure, confirmed after months of speculation, leaves Liverpool without a key creative force, with his 80 assists ranking him among the league’s top defenders.

Alexander-Arnold, a Liverpool academy product since age six, rejected multiple contract offers, with Liverpool’s final proposal reportedly worth £300,000 weekly, per 2024 negotiations. His move to Real Madrid, set to join Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Jr., aligns with the Spanish club’s strategy to rejuvenate their squad under incoming manager Xabi Alonso. Slot highlighted Alexander-Arnold’s 65% pass completion in the opposition half and 10 chances created in his final five games, underscoring his $80 million market value. Liverpool’s 2024-25 title-winning campaign, securing 92 points, mitigated the blow, with Ryan Gravenberch’s emergence and a 90% win rate in the Champions League group stage showcasing squad depth.

The transfer, finalized without a fee due to Alexander-Arnold’s expiring contract, cost Liverpool a potential £70 million, per 2024 valuations, prompting Slot to integrate 18-year-old Conor Bradley, who played 20% of right-back minutes this season.