Trent Alexander-Arnold to Leave Liverpool After 20 Years for Real Madrid in 2025

Trent Alexander-Arnold will leave Liverpool at the end of the 2024–25 season after 20 years with the club. The 26-year-old right-back is set to join Real Madrid on a six-year contract starting in July. A Liverpool academy graduate, he has made 352 appearances, scored 23 goals, and provided 86 assists, winning two Premier League titles and a Champions League. Alexander-Arnold's decision to leave was driven by a desire for new challenges, despite Liverpool's efforts to extend his contract. His move to Madrid will be a free transfer, with a reported weekly wage of £240,000.

A Two-Decade Journey from Academy to Anfield Icon

Born in Liverpool and a lifelong Reds supporter, Alexander-Arnold joined the club’s academy at the age of six. He made his senior debut in 2016 and quickly established himself as a key figure in Jürgen Klopp’s high-octane system. Known for his pinpoint crossing, set-piece prowess, and tactical intelligence, he redefined the role of the modern full-back.

Over the course of nine senior seasons, Alexander-Arnold became a mainstay in Liverpool’s backline, contributing to some of the club’s most successful campaigns in recent memory. His 86 assists are the most by a defender in Premier League history, and his 23 goals often came at crucial moments. He was named vice-captain in 2023, a testament to his leadership and influence both on and off the pitch.

A Decorated Career at Anfield

Alexander-Arnold’s list of honours with Liverpool is extensive. He played a pivotal role in the club’s 2018–19 UEFA Champions League victory, starting in the final against Tottenham Hotspur. The following season, he was instrumental in ending Liverpool’s 30-year wait for a league title, helping the team secure the 2019–20 Premier League crown. He added a second league title in the 2024–25 season under new manager Arne Slot.

His trophy cabinet also includes the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup in 2019, the FA Cup in 2022, and two EFL Cup triumphs. Individually, he was named the PFA Young Player of the Year and the inaugural Premier League Young Player of the Season in 2020. He has also been selected multiple times for the PFA Team of the Year and the FIFA FIFPRO Men’s World 11.

The Decision to Depart

In an emotional video message shared on social media, Alexander-Arnold described his decision to leave as “the hardest I’ve ever made in my life.” He explained that after two decades at the club, he felt the need for a new challenge to grow both professionally and personally.

“This club has been my whole life – my whole world – for 20 years,” he said. “From the academy right through until now, the support and love I have felt from everyone inside and outside of the club will stay with me forever.”

While Liverpool had hoped to extend his contract, which expires on June 30, 2025, negotiations ultimately did not result in a renewal. The club reportedly made a significant financial offer to retain him, but Alexander-Arnold opted to explore new horizons.

Real Madrid Beckons

Alexander-Arnold is expected to sign a six-year deal with Real Madrid, running through the summer of 2031. The contract is reportedly worth £240,000 per week and includes a substantial signing-on bonus. The move will be completed as a free transfer, with the agreement set to be finalized in July.

At Madrid, he will join fellow England international Jude Bellingham and follow in the footsteps of other English stars who made the switch from Anfield to the Santiago Bernabéu, including Steve McManaman and Michael Owen. The Spanish champions view Alexander-Arnold as a key addition to their squad, particularly with veteran right-backs Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vázquez both in their 30s and facing injury concerns.

Madrid’s coaching staff are said to be excited by Alexander-Arnold’s versatility, with his ability to operate in midfield as well as in defense offering tactical flexibility. His arrival is seen as part of the club’s broader strategy of acquiring experienced, high-quality players on free transfers, following successful deals for Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba in recent years.

A Legacy at Liverpool

Alexander-Arnold leaves Liverpool not just as a decorated player, but as a symbol of the club’s identity. Nicknamed “the Scouser in our team,” his connection with the fans and the city ran deep. His departure marks the end of an era, and while the club moves forward under Arne Slot, replacing his unique skill set and leadership will be a significant challenge.

Liverpool acknowledged his contributions in a statement, saying he “will depart with our gratitude and appreciation for his contribution during a sustained period of success.”

As he prepares to embark on a new chapter in Spain, Alexander-Arnold’s legacy at Liverpool is secure. From a six-year-old academy hopeful to a two-time Premier League champion and Champions League winner, his journey is one of loyalty, excellence, and evolution.

Trent Alexander-Arnold to Leave Liverpool After 20 Years for Real Madrid in 2025

Key Updates

Liverpool's Arne Slot Suggests Trent Alexander-Arnold's Early Move to Real Madrid for Club World Cup

Liverpool FC Faces Set-Piece Challenge: Over-Reliance on Alexander-Arnold After Coutinho's 2018 Departure

Real Madrid Offers €1m to Liverpool for Early Transfer of Trent Alexander-Arnold Ahead of FIFA Club World Cup