English defender, Trent Alexander-Arnold, has said he has “never felt more loved and more cared for” after making an emotional final appearance at Anfield as Liverpool lifted the Premier League Trophy.
Alexander-Arnold, 26-year-old right-back, was handed a hero’s farewell when he came on at half-time in Sunday’s 1-1 draw against FA Cup 2024/25 winners Crystal Palace to make his 259th and last Premier League appearance for the new Kings of England, Liverpool.
In his post-Crystal Palace comments, Alexander-Arnold said: “I didn’t know what to expect stepping out today after what had happened a few weeks ago.
“I wanted to play for the club one more time. I said that to the manager, and he trusted me at half-time. And to get the reception I got means more than ever. I’ve played hundreds of games for the club, but I’ve never felt more loved and more cared for than today.”
He continued: “From six years old to 26 now – 20 years. It’s a very, very long time but I’ve loved every single minute of it.
“The ups and the downs, coming through the Academy, making it to the first team, then being part of the first team properly. It’s been an honour and a privilege for me to be a part of this club.”
The Englishman confessed he is still struggling with the fact that he won’t be flaunting the Liverpool colours next season.
He said: “It’s not sunk in; it’s all I’ve ever known.
“At times you catch yourself thinking you’ll be back next season, but then you remember it’s not the case because things are changing. I’ll remember these moments for the rest of my life, especially today. It’s been the best day of my life, a very, very special day and a very special achievement for the team and the club.”
