Trent Alexander-Arnold says he still hopes for a degree of understanding from Liverpool fans after revealing he continues to receive abuse 14 months after leaving Anfield for Real Madrid. After a disrupted first season in Spain, the 27-year-old told the media that the reaction to his departure from the club he supports still hurts, though he watches every game and his boyhood club remains in his heart.
Despite being booed upon his return to Anfield during a Champions League match in November, Alexander-Arnold can dissociate that hostility from his in-person visits to Merseyside to see family. He noted that online abuse has crossed the line and is a sad part of modern life, but added that it does not reflect the true nature of the club or his home city.
In addition to club matters, Alexander-Arnold opened up about missing out on England's World Cup squad under Thomas Tuchel. Receiving the news from the manager left him properly gutted and angry, but he understands the decision while remaining determined to return to international duty.
The full-back emphasized that until he retires, he considers himself an England player and is always available when needed. He intends to channel his disappointment over the snub into a positive mindset for the new season.
