Liverpool’s official social media accounts sparked mixed reactions on Tuesday after wishing Trent Alexander-Arnold a happy birthday — just three months after his controversial move to Real Madrid.

The 27-year-old defender, once a fan favourite at Anfield, left Liverpool last summer on a free transfer, choosing not to renew his contract with the club he joined as a youth. His decision angered many fans, leading to boos during his final months in a red shirt.

Fans React Angrily to Liverpool’s Birthday Post

The club’s post on X (formerly Twitter), which read “Happy birthday, Trent Alexander-Arnold” and featured a photo of him lifting the Premier League trophy, quickly went viral for all the wrong reasons.

While some supporters offered kind birthday wishes, others were furious that the club acknowledged a player they still view as a “traitor.”

“Lads, we’ve just lost three on the bounce — could you not?” one fan replied.

“We are NOT wishing him a happy birthday,” another wrote, while one added, “We deserve all the abuse we get for posting this.”

Despite the backlash, several fans defended Alexander-Arnold, reminding others of his contributions to Liverpool’s modern success.

“Happy birthday to the smoothest passer of the ball,” one user posted. “He gave everything for this club.”

Alexander-Arnold Set for Emotional Anfield Return

The former Liverpool vice-captain will return to Anfield on November 4, when Real Madrid face Liverpool in the Champions League group stage.

Many supporters expect him to receive a hostile reception after his controversial exit, though others — including former Liverpool midfielder Steve McManaman — believe the night will still be emotional for both sides.

“It’s going to be hard for him,” McManaman said in September. “The crowd will give him a good reception but will still want Liverpool to win. It’s Anfield — the atmosphere will be electric.”

A Divided Fanbase

Alexander-Arnold, who won the Champions League and two Premier League titles during his time at Liverpool, remains one of the club’s most successful academy graduates.
However, his decision to join Real Madrid continues to divide opinion among supporters — a rift made evident by the reaction to his birthday post.