Steven Gerrard has finally spoken out about Trent Alexander-Arnold’s controversial summer move to Real Madrid.
The transfer saga stretched throughout last season, with Liverpool’s vice-captain refusing to sign a new contract until the final moments — a stance that ultimately saw him depart for Madrid on a free transfer.
Liverpool managed to receive a nominal £8.4 million fee, largely due to Madrid’s urgency to register him for the Club World Cup, but that figure was a fraction of what the club could have earned had Alexander-Arnold extended his deal earlier.
His exit left many Liverpool fans furious, transforming him from a cherished hometown hero into a divisive figure among the Anfield faithful.
While several former players — including Jamie Carragher — publicly criticised the decision, Gerrard, arguably Liverpool’s most iconic captain, has now shared his perspective.
Speaking on Rio Ferdinand Presents Podcast, Gerrard offered a balanced and heartfelt take on the situation, explaining that he could see both sides of the story.
“This is me speaking without my Liverpool hat on,” he began. “When Real Madrid came for me with Mourinho, it turned my head — seriously. I can understand it. I get it.
“His best mate plays there. Maybe he wants a new challenge. He’s already won everything at Liverpool. So, part of me really understands it.
“But when I put my Liverpool hat back on, I think — what are you doing? You’re one of the best teams in Europe, winning trophies I still dream about. The fans adore you. Why leave?”
Gerrard also commented on the backlash from fans, stressing that criticism is part of football but abuse crosses the line.
“I understand the stick he got — so what? I got it too. Anyone who flirts with Real Madrid or Barcelona will. It’s part of the game. But the abuse? That’s unacceptable. Fans who pay money and buy shirts have every right to express opinions, but it should never turn nasty.”
The Liverpool legend admitted he wouldn’t have made the same choice as Alexander-Arnold but believes the 26-year-old is talented enough to succeed in Spain.
“I think he took a massive risk. He’s an incredible player — one of the best passers I’ve ever seen, up there with Beckham. But leaving Liverpool at his peak and rejecting a new deal was a gamble, and I think he’s feeling that now.
“I hope it works out for him because I love the lad. I wouldn’t have done it myself, but he’s good enough to make it work.”
Since joining Madrid, Alexander-Arnold has had a difficult start, featuring in only two La Liga games so far. Dani Carvajal remains Xabi Alonso’s first-choice right-back, limiting the England international’s minutes.
To compound matters, Alexander-Arnold picked up an injury in mid-September, sidelining him for several weeks.
Still, with Gerrard’s full backing and his immense talent, there’s belief that Trent can overcome the early challenges and prove himself at the Bernabéu.
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