UEFA Champions League 2025-26: Trent mural defaced ahead of Liverpool’s return

A mural depicting former Liverpool favorite Trent Alexander-Arnold was vandalized just hours before his return to Anfield with new team Real Madrid on Tuesday.

The former Reds full-back is expected to be in Real’s squad for the Champions League tie after leaving his boyhood club for Spain at the end of last season.

The 27-year-old’s decision to run out of contract angered some Liverpool fans, who sometimes booed him in his final months at the club.

The large mural at Anfield was unveiled in 2019 after Liverpool’s Champions League win and was previously vandalized, with the word ‘Rat’ defaced on it.

The same word was rewritten several times on Tuesday as white paint was thrown over the image and workers moved quickly to clean it.

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A frosty reception is all but guaranteed for Alexander-Arnold on Tuesday.

The defender said he had «mixed emotions» about his return and would not celebrate if he scored.

He said it is up to the fans how they react, adding that he will “always love the club”.

“Whatever happens, my feelings towards Liverpool will not change,” he told Amazon Prime.

“I have memories there that will last a lifetime and no matter how I am received, that will not change.”

Liverpool manager Arne Slot said he would extend a warm welcome to his former player.

“I have great memories of the player and the person,” said the Dutchman.

Published on November 4, 2025