A mural of Trent Alexander-Arnold in Liverpool has been vandalized ahead of his anticipated return to Anfield with Real Madrid for Tuesday's Champions League match. The former Liverpool full-back, who joined the Spanish giants less than six months ago, is expected to be in the Real Madrid squad.
Alexander-Arnold's departure at the end of his contract sparked anger among some Liverpool fans, leading to him being booed during his final appearances for the club. The mural, located on Sybil Road near Anfield Road, was defaced with white paint and graffiti, including the words "rat" in both English and Spanish. The messages "Rat not welcome" and "Adios el rata" were also scribbled across the mural. Workers were seen cleaning the mural on Tuesday.
The mural was originally commissioned by the podcast "The Anfield Rap" and featured the logo of Fans Supporting Foodbanks, an organization fighting food poverty. It commemorated Alexander-Arnold's role in Liverpool's 2019 Champions League victory and displayed his quote: "I'm just a normal lad from Liverpool whose dream has just come true".
Alexander-Arnold, who joined Liverpool's academy in 2004 at age six, made his senior debut in 2016. Before his move to Real Madrid, he made 352 appearances for the Reds, scoring 23 goals and winning eight major trophies, including the Premier League title. His decision to leave his boyhood club angered some supporters, with many branding him a traitor.
Ahead of the match, Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso, a Liverpool legend himself, advised Alexander-Arnold to "enjoy" his return to Anfield, regardless of the fan reception. Arne Slot, Liverpool's head coach, also expressed hope that Alexander-Arnold would be well-received. "He was my vice-captain last season and I have memories of working with him which were only positive," Slot said.
Alexander-Arnold himself acknowledged the fans' right to react as they see fit. "Whatever way I'm received is the decision of the fans," he said. "I'll always love the club, I'll always be a fan of the club. I'll always be thankful for the opportunities and the things we achieved together – they'll live with me forever".
The match marks the 13th meeting between Liverpool and Real Madrid, a rivalry that has produced several memorable Champions League encounters. Real Madrid currently leads with 7 wins to Liverpool's 4, with 1 draw.
Liverpool will be without Alisson Becker, Jeremie Frimpong and Alexander Isak due to injury. Real Madrid will be missing David Alaba, Dani Carvajal and Antonio Rudiger.
The Champions League clash is scheduled for an 8pm GMT kick-off at Anfield and will be streamed live on Amazon Prime.
