A symbol of pride torn apart

For years, the phrase “I’m just a normal lad from Liverpool who’s fulfilled his dream” decorated a wall near Anfield —a proud reminder of a local hero’s journey. It was a mural dedicated to Trent Alexander-Arnold, the boy from West Derby who grew up dreaming of wearing the Liverpool shirt, and did.

But on the morning before Liverpool vs Real Madrid, that mural was found completely destroyed. The footballer’s image, originally painted in 2019, was smeared over with white paint, and across it, a harsh message appeared: “Goodbye, rat.” The attack sparked outrage among locals and sadness among fans who had come to see that wall as a small shrine to the club.

From tribute to symbol of betrayal

The mural was originally created by fan group The Anfield Wrap to commemorate Liverpool’s 2019 Champions League victory over Tottenham, when Alexander-Arnold embodied the fearless, fast-paced football that brought the Reds back to Europe’s summit.

However, his move to Real Madrid, announced after his contract expired on June 30, drastically changed how many viewed him. After two decades at the club, his decision not to renew and to leave for free was seen by many as an act of betrayal. “I’m looking for new challenges and experiences away from home,” he said in his farewell —words that did little to heal the wound left among Liverpool supporters.

A divided city and an uneasy return

“There will be mixed reactions. Some will applaud, but most fans are still hurt,” journalist Juan Yagüe told MARCA. Around Anfield, the mood is tense. Some believe Trent earned the right to leave with respect after years of service; others feel he broke the sacred bond between player and club.

Restoration work on the mural began just hours after the vandalism, but the symbolic damage may be harder to fix. Tonight, as Liverpool face Real Madrid, Anfield will have the final say —and Trent Alexander-Arnold, the boy who once was their hero, will have to listen.