Klopp’s Departure Pushed Alexander-Arnold to Leave Liverpool for Real Madrid
Trent Alexander-Arnold reportedly decided to leave Liverpool after learning that Jürgen Klopp would step down as manager. Despite Arne Slot’s impressive debut season—leading the Reds to what looks like an inevitable Premier League title—the right-back felt Klopp’s exit was too significant to overlook.
According to The Mirror, Klopp’s departure was the tipping point for Alexander-Arnold, who is now close to finalizing a move to Real Madrid. With his contract expiring this summer, the England international has opted to leave Anfield despite Slot’s strong start.
Alexander-Arnold on Klopp’s Exit: “It Shook the Dressing Room”
Reflecting on the moment Klopp informed the squad, Alexander-Arnold recalled how the news stunned the team.
“It started like a normal day, then the manager called a 10:30 am meeting, which we never had before, so everyone was confused,” he told The Athletic. *”He walked in and told us there was news breaking as he spoke.
We found out at the same time as the public, but he wanted to tell us personally. He said this had to be his last season, that he needed a break to be with his family.
I didn’t know what to do… After he left, we all just sat there thinking, ‘Did that really just happen?’ It shook the dressing room for a couple of hours.”*
A Major Coup for Real Madrid
Alexander-Arnold now appears set to join Real Madrid on a free transfer, mirroring their signing of Kylian Mbappé under similar circumstances last summer. Having spent his entire career at Liverpool after rising through the academy, his departure will likely sting for fans—especially given the loyalty Steven Gerrard once showed the club.
