Paul Merson Defends Trent Alexander-Arnold Amid Backlash from Liverpool Fans
Trent Alexander-Arnold's impending departure from Liverpool to Real Madrid has sparked outrage among some Reds supporters. However, former Arsenal and England star Paul Merson has jumped to the defense of the 26-year-old right-back, questioning the rationale behind the backlash.
Alexander-Arnold, who has been with Liverpool since joining the youth academy in 2004, is set to leave the club on a free transfer when his contract expires on June 30. News of his departure has led to widespread abuse on social media, with one fan even filming a video of themselves burning a shirt with Alexander-Arnold's name and number on the back.
Merson, however, believes the criticism is unwarranted. "I don't know what the problem is," he told Sky Sports. "He's come through the ranks, he's been unbelievable, and he's won everything in the game with Liverpool. He's going to go on a free, and I think Liverpool fans should be happy for him."
Merson drew comparisons with Antony, who joined Manchester United for £80 million in 2022 but is currently out on loan. "No one says a word about that," Merson noted. "This lad has been absolutely outstanding for Liverpool. He hasn't come in as a £60m flop. He's been through the ranks, he's come into the team, and he's been phenomenal."
Merson also pointed out that Alexander-Arnold is joining one of the biggest clubs in the world. "It's Real Madrid," he said. "Do you know what I mean? I don't know anybody in the world of football who's ever turned Real Madrid down; I don't."
Former Blackburn and Celtic forward Chris Sutton shares Merson's view, believing that the criticism aimed at Alexander-Arnold is unjustified. "Just because Trent wants to leave, it doesn't mean he doesn't have great affection for the club," Sutton said on the Mail Sport podcast "It's All Kicking Off!". "He's given great service to Liverpool. He's won everything he can win with the club, and now he wants to try something different."
Sutton also questioned the intelligence of those criticizing Alexander-Arnold. "I think this criticism is coming from knuckleheads," he said. "He's given great service to Liverpool, and I think he deserves that move."
As the debate surrounding Alexander-Arnold's departure continues, it's clear that not everyone shares the same opinion. However, Merson and Sutton's defense of the player highlights the importance of respecting a player's decision to move on and pursue new challenges.
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