Virgil van Dijk is confident that Liverpool’s Premier League title celebrations won’t be dampened by Trent Alexander-Arnold’s upcoming departure.
The 26-year-old right-back, a local product of the club, announced last week that he will leave Liverpool once his contract expires at the end of June. He is widely expected to join Real Madrid.
Alexander-Arnold made his first appearance since revealing his exit plans during Sunday’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal, where he was met with boos from sections of the crowd.
Club captain Van Dijk acknowledged the team is “gutted” to lose such a key player, but said Alexander-Arnold must “deal with” the criticism.
He assured fans that Liverpool intends to celebrate their 20th top-flight title — equaling a historic record — in memorable fashion, and that Alexander-Arnold will take part in lifting the trophy at Anfield on Sunday, 25 May. A city-wide open-top bus parade is scheduled for the following day.
“We want to win our last two games and, once the final whistle blows, celebrate together — including Trent — lifting the trophy like never before,” said the 33-year-old Dutchman.
When asked if Alexander-Arnold’s impending departure could overshadow the celebrations, Van Dijk replied, “I don’t think so. It shouldn’t. There are many players who also deserve a truly special day.”
