“Classless of the highest order” – Liverpool legend slams fans over decision to boo Trent Alexander-Arnold at Anfield during draw vs Arsenal

Steve Nicol has slammed Liverpool fans for booing Trent Alexander-Arnold in their Premier League clash against Arsenal on Sunday. He said that anyone who has played for or still plays for the club should not be booed.

On March 5, 2025, Alexander-Arnold announced his decision to leave the Merseysiders this summer upon the expiration of his contract. This led to widespread criticism from the club’s fans on social media. The Reds then hosted Arsenal at Anfield in the Premier League on Sunday.

Alexander-Arnold started on the bench. He came on in the 67th minute to replace Conor Bradley and was met with boos around the stadium. After the game, Steve Nicol said on ESPN FC that he was shocked to hear it. He said (via Rousing the Kop):

The match ended in a 2-2 draw despite Arsenal going down to 10 men after Mikel Merino’s sending off in the 79th minute.

Arne Slot was extensively asked about the Anfield crowd’s reaction to Trent Alexander-Arnold against Arsenal. He asserted that it is important for him to try to win the game, and while there was booing, there were people clapping as well.

The Dutchman was then asked if he would consider removing the right-back from the squad for their remaining two games. He answered (via Liverpoolfc.com):

Alexander-Arnold came through Liverpool’s academy and has recorded 23 goals and 92 assists in 353 games for them. He is reportedly set to join Real Madrid as a free agent this summer.

Aditya Singh

Aditya has been working as a European football journalist and editor for Sportskeeda for close to 3 years. He boasts a total experience of over 6 years, and always aims to inculcate proper context in his articles, making the most of his prior stints in writing and marketing across a number of different industries over the years. He has also played football at college level for 2 years.

A B.Tech. graduate, Aditya’s journey as an ardent football fan began after watching the elegant maestro Zinedine Zidane in the 2006 FIFA World Cup, and his infamous headbutt on Marco Materazzi in the final. He has been a fan of Tottenham Hotspur’s front foot and creative football since 2008 and connect’s with the club’s underdog status.

Aditya, who is a Sportskeeda ‘Long-form Editor of the Month’ award winner, is a big admirer of Luka Modric’s elegant and hard-working style of play. His favorite manager is Carlo Ancelotti because the Italian allows his players enough freedom in an age where micromanagement is the established norm.

Aditya feels Jude Bellingham and Jamal Musiala could replicate the Messi-Ronaldo rivalry due to their incredible collective potential. In his free time, he likes to read classical fiction, travel to places, and explore a variety of foods.

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