Trent Alexander-Arnold’s expression following the final whistle of Liverpool’s match against Brighton on Monday night was telling.
As anticipated by David Lynch prior to kickoff, the soon-to-depart Liverpool vice-captain was named in the squad for the clash at the Amex Stadium.
However, he didn’t feature in the game, avoiding a repeat of the hostile reception he faced at Anfield during the Arsenal fixture days earlier. Manager Arne Slot kept the 26-year-old on the bench throughout. Even when Conor Bradley was subbed off in the 77th minute, it was midfielder Wataru Endo who came on instead.
Trent looked noticeably down after the Brighton defeat
Despite Liverpool surrendering the lead twice in a 3-2 loss, the traveling Kop stayed in high spirits, celebrating with Brighton fans post-match to Gala’s ‘Freed From Desire’, continuing their championship-winning celebrations.
While the Liverpool players moved toward the away section to thank the fans, cameras caught Alexander-Arnold slightly detached, hands on hips, not clapping with the rest. He soon turned away, visibly dejected—likely feeling the sting of the loss, but also perhaps facing the emotional weight of nearing his final appearance for his boyhood club.
Is Trent starting to feel the weight of his looming Liverpool departure?
Could it be hitting home for Alexander-Arnold that his time as a Liverpool player, after two decades rising through the ranks to global stardom, is coming to an end?
It didn’t have to be this way. He could have rejected Real Madrid’s interest and stayed where he was beloved—so long as he remained committed to the club and avoided enticement from abroad.
Although many fans at Anfield recently made their feelings clear, his teammates have stood by him publicly and privately, spending meaningful time together before his departure.
One can only imagine what was on Trent’s mind as he stared at the jubilant away end at the Amex around 10pm on Monday…