Arne Slot has confirmed that Trent Alexander-Arnold will feature in Liverpool’s final two matches of the season, despite being jeered by some home supporters during the recent draw against Arsenal at Anfield. The right-back, who has announced his decision to leave the club on a free transfer this summer, was subjected to boos before, during, and after his substitute appearance. The atmosphere turned especially sour when Arsenal equalised through Mikel Merino moments after Alexander-Arnold was whistled while on the ball.
Slot was adamant that the 26-year-old’s presence on the pitch was not a hindrance to the team and praised his contribution, claiming that Alexander-Arnold nearly helped Liverpool secure a win with a string of dangerous crosses late in the game. The head coach reiterated that his main responsibility is to win football matches and, if selecting Alexander-Arnold gives the team the best chance to do so, he will continue to pick him.
Slot made it clear that any decisions surrounding team selection will be based on performance and tactical considerations, not public sentiment. He explained that unless the player becomes a distraction that undermines the team’s ability to play effectively, he sees no reason to sideline him. Slot described the final stages of the match as Liverpool’s strongest spell in the second half, crediting both Alexander-Arnold and the rest of the team for a composed finish to a tense contest.
Despite the negative reaction from a portion of the home crowd, Slot chose not to criticise the fans, instead noting the freedom of expression that allows individuals to voice their opinions, however divisive. He acknowledged that while many supporters are disappointed by the player’s decision to leave, the reactions varied, with some choosing to applaud rather than boo.
Meanwhile, several of Alexander-Arnold’s teammates were visibly frustrated by the treatment he received. Their support suggested a sense of unity within the squad, even as emotions ran high among the fans. The club is set to lift its 20th league title at Anfield in their next home fixture against Crystal Palace, a moment that Slot believes will not be overshadowed by off-field controversies.
For Arsenal, the 2-2 draw secured a valuable point that edges them closer to Champions League qualification. However, the mood in their camp was far from celebratory. Their manager delivered a scathing assessment of the team’s first-half performance, particularly criticising the lack of defensive discipline and costly mistakes in possession. He expressed frustration at the team’s need to mount a comeback, arguing that they should never have found themselves in such a position.
Although Arsenal showed resilience to claw their way back into the match and even looked the likelier to win in the closing stages, the overall feeling was one of disappointment. Having been reduced to ten men for the sixth time this season, the visitors again had to rely on grit and determination rather than control and precision. The manager lamented the missed opportunity and stressed the need for proactive performances rather than reactive ones in crucial fixtures.
With both clubs entering the final stretch of the campaign under very different circumstances, the spotlight remains firmly on Alexander-Arnold and how he navigates his Anfield farewell amid a mixed reception.
