Quiet farewell for Trent as VVD leads Liverpool squad tribute | OneFootball

Private Farewell for Trent Speaks Volumes as VVD Leads Liverpool Tribute

A captain’s gesture for a vice-captain’s legacy

In the quiet sanctuary of the AXA Training Centre, Liverpool’s title-winning squad found a moment away from the headlines, trophies and terraces. Led by captain Virgil van Dijk, the squad paid tribute to one of their own – Trent Alexander-Arnold – whose two-decade journey with his boyhood club is drawing to a close.

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Sunday’s clash against Crystal Palace will be more than just the Premier League champions’ final fixture of the campaign. It marks the last time Trent, the vice-captain and academy poster boy, will grace Anfield in red. It should be a curtain call steeped in gratitude, yet his most recent appearance was marked not by celebration, but a smattering of boos – frustration from a crowd still digesting the news of his departure.

Words from VVD that hit home

With no official farewell planned ahead of Sunday, the dressing room took matters into its own hands. Before training, Van Dijk addressed the group with warmth and sincerity.

“Right, Trent, we all knew this day was coming, of course, and I speak for everyone here. We would like to thank you for everything you have done. Obviously in your time with Liverpool, the success that we had, the good moments together on and off the pitch, we are definitely going to miss you. You’re an outstanding player, a very good human being. We wish you well and yeah, listen, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for everything you have done. All the best. We have a little something for you.”

With those words, Van Dijk handed over a framed ‘Alexander-Arnold 66’ shirt – a simple but powerful reminder of a legacy built on loyalty, skill and leadership.

From Kirkby to captain’s shoulders

Trent’s response was heartfelt and raw. No script, no polish, just genuine emotion from a lad who had lived and breathed Liverpool Football Club.

“I’m just eternally grateful for everything that I’ve been given. We all dream of these moments but, for me, it feels even more special because I’ve been here 20 years. It’s an amazing chapter of my life – it’s been my whole life – it’s been everything I’ve ever worked for – dreamt for. To share it with you guys and create these bonds, a lot of the lads, especially these guys here [points to VVD and Alisson], have seen me transition from a boy to a man. The bonds and the brotherhood I’ve got with you guys will remain with me forever. I’ve got stories and memories I’ll be able to tell kids and grandkids. I wasn’t prepared for this, but I appreciate it, I appreciate all of you for everything.”

One last image, one lasting impression

The moment concluded with a squad photo – Trent front and centre, his gift in hand, surrounded by teammates who had become family. It was understated but powerful, a contrast to the grandeur of trophy lifts and open-top bus parades.

As questions remain about how Liverpool will officially say goodbye, perhaps this quiet send-off – away from the limelight, filled with sincerity and brotherhood – is the tribute Trent Alexander-Arnold will value most.