Steven Gerrard has fired a strongly worded caution to Trent Alexander-Arnold following the defender’s high-profile move from Liverpool to Real Madrid, describing the decision as a major risk that could shape the player’s legacy.
The former Liverpool captain, who spent his entire playing career at Anfield, spoke with both empathy and concern, making it clear that while he understands the allure of Real Madrid, he would not have taken the same path.
Speaking in an interview with Rio Ferdinand, Gerrard revealed that he too had faced tempting offers from elite European clubs during his playing days. “This is me speaking without my Liverpool hat on at the moment. Real Madrid came for me with Jose Mourinho, and it turned my head,” he said, recalling his own experience of being courted by some of the biggest names in football. “It didn’t get as much traction and noise as Chelsea, but it was shut down pretty quickly. It turned my head.”
However, Gerrard was quick to contrast his temporary intrigue with a steadfast loyalty to Liverpool that ultimately defined his career. “As soon as I put my Liverpool hat back on, I think, ‘What are you doing?’” he admitted. That sentiment, he implied, is the same one that many fans now share regarding Alexander-Arnold’s decision to walk away from Anfield. “He took a risk in my opinion, and I think he’s living that risk now. I hope it works for him because I love the kid. But I wouldn’t have done it.”
Gerrard’s words reflect a balance of admiration and warning. He acknowledged Alexander-Arnold’s exceptional talent and described him as “one of the best passers I’ve ever seen,” even comparing him to Manchester United greats David Beckham and Paul Scholes. Yet his respect for the player’s ability was tempered by a concern that leaving Liverpool at the peak of his influence might jeopardize the special bond he built with supporters.
Trent’s move to Real Madrid came after his contract with Liverpool expired, a decision that drew divided reactions among fans and pundits alike. To many, he was the symbol of a new Liverpool era — a local boy who rose through the ranks to win every major trophy under Jurgen Klopp. But to others, his departure represented a break in loyalty and identity.
Gerrard’s remarks seem to encapsulate that tension, warning that even great talent can face uncomfortable scrutiny once it leaves the comfort of home.
Jamie Carragher, another Liverpool legend, echoed similar sentiments in his analysis of the move, suggesting that Alexander-Arnold may have underestimated the emotional consequences of leaving. Carragher warned that by joining Real Madrid, Trent “has chosen to become a rival,” and that future visits to Anfield would be marked not by adoration, but by the divided feelings of a fanbase that once saw him as one of their own..
Despite his cautionary tone, Gerrard stopped short of condemning Alexander-Arnold’s ambition. He admitted that from a professional standpoint, he can understand why the full-back might seek a fresh challenge. “I can understand it from being in Trent’s shoes,” he said. “He’s won everything at Liverpool, so there’s a part of me that really understands it.”
Gerrard acknowledged that the chance to play for Real Madrid — arguably the world’s most successful football club — would test any player’s resolve and desire to measure themselves on a grander stage.
Still, Gerrard reminded that staying loyal to Liverpool carries its own form of greatness. Reflecting on his own decision to stay despite offers from elsewhere, he remarked, “Staying, that’s part of what makes you a legend at a club like Liverpool. I would have never left in the same way Trent did.” To Gerrard, loyalty and legacy go hand in hand — and that’s what separates those who are remembered merely as players from those remembered as icons.
He also addressed the backlash surrounding Alexander-Arnold’s move, cautioning fans to avoid crossing the line between criticism and abuse. “The stick that goes above the line, the abuse — I don’t agree with. That’s just a load of b******s. It’s got to stop,” Gerrard said firmly.
He emphasized that footballers, despite their status, remain human beings deserving of respect, even when fans disagree with their decisions. “Fans are entitled to an opinion,” he added, “but it has to stay within reason.”
