A mural honoring Trent Alexander-Arnold, the former Liverpool defender, has been vandalized ahead of his anticipated return to Anfield with Real Madrid. The incident occurred just hours before the Champions League match between Liverpool and Real Madrid on November 4, 2025.

Alexander-Arnold, a local lad who rose through Liverpool's academy to become a Premier League and Champions League winner, left the club under a cloud of controversy after his contract expired in the summer of 2025. His move to Real Madrid was met with mixed reactions, with some fans feeling betrayed by his departure.

Images circulating on social media show the mural defaced with white paint and graffiti. The phrases "rat" and "Adios el rata" ("Goodbye rat" in Spanish) were scrawled across the artwork. This is not the first time the mural has been targeted; it was previously defaced with the word "rat" shortly before Alexander-Arnold's exit. Workers were seen cleaning the graffiti before the game.

The mural, located on Sybil Road near Anfield, was commissioned in 2019 by the Liverpool fan podcast "The Anfield Wrap". It was created to celebrate Liverpool's Champions League victory and to inspire the next generation of players. The mural features Alexander-Arnold and his number 66 shirt, along with his quote from the night of the Champions League win: "I'm just a normal lad from Liverpool, whose dream has just come true".

The vandalism has sparked debate among fans, with some condemning the act and others expressing their anger at Alexander-Arnold's departure. Despite the hostility from some fans, Real Madrid coach Arne Slot, who previously coached Alexander-Arnold, has praised the player's talent and character. He also expressed hope that Alexander-Arnold would receive a warm welcome from the team.

Alexander-Arnold himself acknowledged the mixed emotions surrounding his return to Anfield. Speaking to Amazon Prime, he stated that he would always love the club and remain a fan, regardless of the reception he receives.

The incident underscores the emotional connection fans have with their local players and the sense of betrayal some feel when those players move on. It remains to be seen what kind of reception Alexander-Arnold will receive from the Liverpool supporters during the match.