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Liverpool’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday has been overshadowed by the debate surrounding Trent Alexander-Arnold and the booing he received from the Anfield faithful.

The Reds dominated the first half, scoring twice in two minutes through Cody Gakpo (20’) and Luis Díaz (21’), capitalizing on Arsenal’s defensive disarray.

However, the Gunners staged a second-half comeback, with Gabriel Martinelli (47’) and Mikel Merino (70’) leveling the score before Merino’s red card (83’) left Arsenal with ten men.

Despite late pressure, Liverpool failed to secure a winner, with Andy Robertson’s disallowed goal (90+6’) adding to the home side’s frustration.

But the defining subplot emerged in the 67th minute when Alexander-Arnold replaced Conor Bradley, prompting audible boos from sections of the Anfield crowd.

The reaction marked a stark departure from the adoration typically reserved for the vice-captain, who announced his impending free transfer to Real Madrid last week.

Post-match tensions escalated when images circulated of Alexander-Arnold and Arteta exchanging words on the pitch.

The vice-captain’s sly smile while embracing the Spaniard did not add to the cauldron-like atmosphere on social media.

While the conversation’s content remains unclear, Liverpool fans interpreted the interaction as inappropriate given the context of Alexander-Arnold’s imminent departure.

However, speaking to ViaPlay after the game, Arteta maintained there was nothing else being said besides a congratulations – and not a “goodluck in Madrid” message that many fans online speculated:

“I congratulate all of the players for that because they deserve it.”

“They have been the best team and I am sure they have put a lot of work and joy into that title and they deserve to be congratulated.”

With one home game remaining against Crystal Palace, the Anfield faithful will have to decide what send-off their academy graduate will get.

While some fans advocate for a dignified send-off for Alexander-Arnold, others argue his decision to leave negates any ceremonial recognition.

Manager Arne Slot remained diplomatic, stating: “I heard mixed reactions, but my focus is on winning games.”

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