Trent Alexander-Arnold was met with loud boos from many Liverpool fans during their recent draw with Arsenal, and among the critics was UFC fighter Paddy Pimblett.
While Liverpool successfully secured new deals for Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk, Alexander-Arnold chose to end his 20-year stint at the club and join Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid next season. His departure has stirred anger among fans, including Pimblett, who questioned the way the England international handled the situation.
“I’ve never seen one of our players get booed like that. That shows how real the feeling is,” Pimblett told ESPN. “You’re supposed to be a Scouser, lad. He spent the whole season talking about staying but avoided interviews because he knew he was leaving.”
Though it’s unclear how much Pimblett truly knows about Liverpool’s internal dealings, his comments reflect the frustration felt by a portion of the fanbase. Alexander-Arnold’s farewell video, intended to be heartfelt, came across as emotionless to many—Pimblett included.
“That video was pathetic. Just reading off a teleprompter. If I were leaving Liverpool, I’d be in tears. He’s forgotten his roots,” said the MMA fighter.
Some pundits have defended Alexander-Arnold, pointing to his contributions and loyalty over the years, but Pimblett dismissed the outside criticism.
“Pundits don’t get to tell me how to feel. If I want to boo him, I’ll boo him. He shouldn’t be at the trophy parade—it would ruin the mood.”
Liverpool have clinched the Premier League title under new manager Arne Slot. They’ll face Crystal Palace at home in their final match before celebrating with a city-centre parade, whether or not Alexander-Arnold is part of it.