Trent Alexander-Arnold’s high-profile move to Real Madrid has not only drawn attention from fans and pundits but also sparked a cheeky reaction from Liverpool’s own airport. In a post on social media, Liverpool John Lennon Airport poked fun at the England international for choosing to fly out of Manchester Airport rather than using their services for his unveiling in Spain.
The jab came shortly after Alexander-Arnold shared a video of himself boarding a private jet en route to Madrid, where he was officially presented as a Real Madrid player. Liverpool John Lennon Airport responded by highlighting his choice of departure point, implying a sense of irony and disappointment. The post originally included a snake emoji a symbol often used online to accuse someone of betrayal though it was later removed.
The timing of the airport’s dig did not go unnoticed by fans, many of whom found humor in the subtle but pointed sarcasm. Others, however, saw it as an expression of the hurt felt by supporters and locals over the departure of a player widely considered a hometown hero.
Despite the public jest, there are practical reasons behind Alexander-Arnold’s choice of airport. While Liverpool John Lennon Airport does cater to private aviation, Manchester Airport is far larger and busier. It ranks as the busiest airport in the North West and the third busiest in the United Kingdom overall, having served over 30 million passengers in 2024 more than six times the volume handled by its Liverpool counterpart. For players making high-profile international moves, Manchester Airport’s size and logistical advantages often make it the preferred option.
Nonetheless, the decision to fly from a rival city may have symbolically added fuel to the fire for those who already felt slighted by Alexander-Arnold’s move. Once a symbol of Liverpool’s footballing identity, his switch to the Spanish giants and the manner in which it unfolded has led some fans to question his loyalty to the club where he rose through the youth ranks and achieved great success.
His transfer to Real Madrid was fast-tracked by the club’s willingness to pay Liverpool an early fee, taking advantage of FIFA’s special transfer window provisions. As a result, the right-back could make his debut for the reigning La Liga champions as soon as Wednesday in the Club World Cup opener against Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal.
While his focus now shifts to winning trophies in Spain, back home, the reaction to his exitwhether in jest or in earnest highlights the emotional toll of losing a player who once symbolized the very heart of Liverpool.
