Trent Alexander-Arnold in tears, Liverpool moment that broke him and Arne Slot problems.

Boyhood Red Trent Alexander-Arnold is now closer to Liverpool’s exit door than ever before, with Real Madrid looking likely to add yet another big name to their Galactico roster.

Local lad Trent Alexander-Arnold finally looks set to swap the familiar surroundings of Anfield for the bright, white lights of the Bernabeu with his contract running down.

Liverpool’s star full-back has been a Red since the age of six, rising through their academy ranks – while being named captain at U16 and U18 level – to become an integral part of a Champions League and Premier League-winning side. However, the manager who allowed him to blossom on Merseyside into a trophy-winner, Jurgen Klopp, has since found pastures new, and while progress has been evident under Arne Slot, change now looms.

Alexander-Arnold’s contract expires in the summer, and this has long seen Real Madrid sniff around, attempting to lure the 26-year-old on a free transfer.

With reports now suggesting that this long-standing interest is to materialise into a deal, Mirror Football takes a look back along the road that has led to the defender’s decision – including the Englishman’s tears when his German mentor departed, one shattering announcement, and the issues he’s faced under his current manager.

Tears during Klopp’s goodbye

With reports from Sky Sports Switzerland claiming that Alexander-Arnold has made up his mind and will turn down any approaches from Liverpool regarding contract renewal in favour of a blockbuster move to Madrid, the origins of such a desire to fly the nest may have begun when another left Anfield.

Having been appointed in 2015, Klopp quickly took a lacklustre Reds squad to the brink of European glory and went one better with a Champions League win in 2019. Seven more pieces of silverware would follow, but a shock January 2024 statement revealed he would step down from his post at the season’s end.

The German’s Anfield curtain call came with a 2-0 win against Wolves last May, and Alexander-Arnold’s visibly emotional reaction perhaps foreshadowed him becoming unsettled.

“I’ve been a big part and felt a big part of it. The manager’s made me feel a big part of it,” Alexander-Arnold told ViaPlay, while moved to tears. “I’ve developed as a man, as a player, under his guidance.

“None of this is possible without him. There’s not much you can say for a person who’s made everything come true for you. He’s changed my life, and everyone around me, my whole family. This was all possible through him.

“I can never say thank you enough for that. He made my dreams come true. Ask my family, ask anyone. I’m not emotional. I can’t remember the last time I cried! Honestly, I haven’t cried in years. So this is very strange for me. It just shows how much he means to me and the club.”

The announcement that ‘shook’ him

While the emotional goodbye evidently moved Alexander-Arnold, Klopp’s initial earth-shattering revelation that he would be departing Liverpool caught the dismayed defender off guard.

“Just a complete surprise to all of us as players. It was one that we didn’t see coming. You never do, especially when things are going so well,” Alexander-Arnold told Sky Sports when queried on Klopp breaking the news to his players.

“We were flying, up and around the top of the league. We’re fighting on all four fronts at that point for every trophy we could so you’re expecting the good times to keep coming and coming and coming.

“So when he tells us the news and his decision, we have got to respect it obviously, but it’s one of them no player wants to hear, and it was one that kind of shook the dressing room for a couple of hours.”

Discord with Slot

The loss of Klopp evidently hit Alexander-Arnold hard, but the man who replaced him, Slot, has taken to the Anfield hot seat like a duck to water. Though the hope of multiple trophies has dissipated, the Dutchman’s men are well in the driving seat when it comes to delivering a Premier League title.

Success on the pitch hasn’t quelled the 26-year-old’s yearning, however, and a heated moment from Slot’s fleeting stages may illuminate such lingering frustrations.

In a 2-0 win over Brentford in August, the right-back was hauled off just after the 70-minute mark for Conor Bradley. He proceeded to slump in the dugout after a discordant conversation with Slot and looked a vexed figure at full-time.

“He didn’t look that happy after being taken off – I understand,” admitted Slot in his post-match press conference. “Every player wants to play 90 minutes. But the players on the bench from the start were also not really happy with my choices.”

It must be said that Alexander-Arnold has been incredibly complimentary of his new manager’s tactics throughout what has been a wildly impressive debut campaign. But, the change that arrived when Klopp departed perhaps has never been shaken, and the ‘Scouser in our team’ now looks likely to follow the German onto new beginnings.

Federico Chiesa’s heartfelt message to wife as she ditches UK

Hundreds of fans sent their support to the couple.

Federico Chiesa posted a loving message to his wife as she left the UK. The Italian forward was one of few Liverpool players to impress in the Carabao Cup Final earlier this month, as his late goal against Newcastle United sparked hopes of an unlikely comeback.

The Reds ultimately lost the Wembley final 2-1 after a poor performance against the Magpies, who took a two-goal lead with goals from Dan Burn and Alexander Isak.

That was only Chiesa’s 11th appearance of the season. Indeed, he has made just three brief substitute appearances in the Premier League, totalling less than half an hour on the pitch. In all competitions, the forward has only three starts.

Away from the pitch, Chiesa is married to Lucia Bramani. The couple married in a stunning ceremony at the Grosseto Cathedral in Tuscany last July.

Lucia moved to the UK with Federico when the Italian forward agreed to join Liverpool from Juventus in an £11m transfer at the end of August.

In an Instagram post yesterday, Chiesa sent a heartfelt message to Lucia as she marked her 25th birthday. He posted a picture of them from a wedding and a holiday last year.

In the accompanying caption translated from Italian, Chiesa said: “Happy birthday my love, I Love you!” This was followed by a series of red love heart emojis.

Lucia replied in the comments section, saying: “I love you my love.” Hundreds of fans also sent their support to her in the comments section. One said: “What a beautiful couple.” Another said: “Congratulations.” A third added: “Best wishes.”

Lucia shared other birthday messages on her story, including from lingerie firm Goldenpoint. She has worked with them before and the business gave her a bouquet of flowers as she arrived in Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands for a new shoot. Lucia said: “Just arrived in Fuerteventura for the new campaign with my @goldenpointofficialfamily.”

Lucia is also a psychology graduate from the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan. She regularly shares updates on her personal life to her 263,000 followers on Instagram.

Lucia appears to be enjoying life on Merseyside so far. In her latest Instagram post published last month, she posted a series of pictures including one of her at the Albert Dock in Liverpool city centre.

She was also photographed walking on the famous Anfield turf after a home game earlier this month. There was a clip of her and Chiesa in a supermarket together too.

Liverpool’s next game is the Merseyside derby against Everton at Anfield on April 2. The Reds are currently 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League table.

‘I saw what Federico Chiesa did in international break – it leaves Arne Slot with no choice’

Federico Chiesa’s move to Liverpool hasn’t worked out so far, but the Italian isn’t giving up on his time at Anfield, and Arne Slot has a clear decision to make now.

The international break may have come at a good time for Liverpool, although that hasn’t prevented what feels like an interminable wait for the Reds to be back in action – especially if you’re one of the unfortunate players not to have been called up by your country.

Federico Chiesa has been in that very position for the last week or so. The move to Anfield has not worked so far for the Italian, and his lack of game time has certainly not improved his chances of getting back in Luciano Spalletti’s setup.

In fact, the Italy boss has been outspoken about wanting Chiesa to move back to Serie A, despite having been frozen out by Thiago Motta at Juventus last year. Motta has now been fired by the Turin club, something which has not gone unnoticed by Chiesa.

The 27-year-old doesn’t appear to be entertaining the idea of an early exit from Anfield, despite being linked with a number of clubs back in his homeland. His father has even insisted this week that he has no regrets over making the move to Merseyside, despite having made just 11 appearances so far this season.

“I can guarantee that Federico’s very happy at Liverpool,” Chiesa senior said. “We hope he can win the Premier League, we have no regrets about Juventus. He’s so happy at Liverpool.”

Perhaps Chiesa’s positive outlook is thanks to his last outing before the international break. Despite the Carabao Cup ultimately ending in disappointment for Liverpool, the Italian was perhaps the only player other than Harvey Elliott to come away with any credit, having scored in stoppage time to give the Reds the faintest glimmer of hope against Newcastle.

His cameo did leave plenty of questions as to why Arne Slot has given him so few opportunities this season. Earlier on in the season, it was put down to Chiesa struggling to get up to speed with his new teammates after missing pre-season, but with just two months of the campaign remaining, he hasn’t been able to get any more time out on the pitch.

You know the old saying though – make hay while the sun shines. Chiesa certainly seems to be smelling an opportunity now, and so should Slot.

Despite not being called up during the international break, the winger has not sat around and felt sorry for himself. Instead, he’s been seen training in full Liverpool gear back in Italy on his Instagram story, clearly eyeing up a chance during the Reds’ final nine games of the season.

And, at this point, he should be given that chance. Of course, Mohamed Salah is unlikely to be dropped, even after a couple of disappointing outings recently, and with Cody Gakpo back fit and scoring for the Netherlands, Chiesa may still find it hard to get a start on either wing.

There is one other option available to him though through the center. Liverpool’s other options in that position – Darwin Nunez, Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz – aren’t exactly firing at the moment, and Chiesa showed at Wembley he is just as capable with a perfectly-timed run and composed finish for his goal.

This surely has to be his chance now. Although Slot has been hesitant so far, he simply has to play Chiesa now.

“Unbreakable Hope: How Isaac Kearney’s Story Transformed Five Families Through Their Darkest Moments”

Life has a way of throwing challenges at us—some so overwhelming that they shake the very foundation of our existence. But in the midst of storms, stories of resilience and triumph can become a beacon of hope. For five families, the story of Isaac Kearney was more than just inspiring; it was the turning point that gave them strength, courage, and the will to keep fighting.

Through heartfelt interviews, these families shared how Isaac’s journey resonated with their struggles and gave them the push they needed to rise above their circumstances. Their testimonies are a powerful reminder that no matter how tough life gets, hope and perseverance can lead to victory.

The Andersons: Finding Light After Tragedy

When the Anderson family lost their eldest son in a tragic accident, grief consumed their home. Linda, the mother, confessed that she could barely function, and her husband withdrew into silence. “We were drowning in sorrow,” she said. “I didn’t think we’d ever smile again.”

One day, their teenage daughter came across Isaac Kearney’s story. She read about his battles, his unwavering faith, and his refusal to let hardships define him. It was then that Linda saw a glimmer of hope. “Isaac’s resilience reminded me that life doesn’t end with loss—it’s how we choose to move forward,” she shared. Slowly, they started healing, finding purpose in honoring their son’s memory instead of being trapped in grief.

The Martens: Overcoming Financial Ruin

For years, James and Clara Marten built their dream business, but when the economy crashed, they lost everything. Bankruptcy drained their savings, their home was repossessed, and they were forced to start over with nothing. “We were broken, ashamed, and scared,” James admitted.

One night, James stumbled upon an interview about Isaac Kearney’s relentless pursuit of success despite overwhelming obstacles. “I saw myself in his story,” he said. Inspired by Isaac’s never-give-up attitude, James and Clara started a new venture—small at first, but with determination, it grew. Today, they have rebuilt their lives and now mentor others facing financial hardship.

The O’Connors: Beating Cancer with Courage

When Sarah O’Connor was diagnosed with cancer, her family’s world turned upside down. Her husband, Mark, struggled with fear, and their children didn’t know how to cope with the uncertainty. “The word ‘cancer’ felt like a death sentence,” Sarah recalled.

During one of her toughest days, she read Isaac Kearney’s story and saw how he faced his own trials with unshakable strength. “I realized that my mindset mattered just as much as the treatment,” she said. Inspired by his perseverance, Sarah fought harder, refusing to let the disease define her. Today, she is cancer-free, and her family credits Isaac’s story for giving them the faith to believe in miracles.

The Thompsons: Saving a Marriage on the Brink

After ten years of marriage, Michael and Rachel Thompson were ready to call it quits. Misunderstandings, financial stress, and emotional distance had taken a toll. They barely spoke, and their children could sense the growing tension.

One evening, Rachel came across a podcast discussing Isaac Kearney’s journey—his commitment to overcoming adversity and holding onto what truly matters. “I cried listening to it,” she admitted. “It made me realize that anything worth having requires fight and sacrifice.”

She shared it with Michael, and together, they decided to seek counseling instead of giving up. “Isaac’s story showed us that we could rebuild, that our struggles didn’t have to define our future.” Today, their marriage is stronger than ever, and they help other couples navigate rough patches.

The Rodriguezes: A Father and Son’s Reconciliation

Luis Rodriguez and his teenage son, Mateo, had been estranged for years. Hurt, pride, and misunderstandings had created a wall between them. “I thought he didn’t care about me, and he thought the same,” Luis admitted.

One night, by pure chance, they watched a documentary on Isaac Kearney’s life. Seeing how Isaac fought through pain, reconciled with people, and never let bitterness win, something shifted. “I realized I had to make the first move,” Luis said. He reached out to Mateo, and for the first time in years, they had an open, heartfelt conversation. Today, their bond is stronger than ever.

Isaac Kearney’s story is not just one of success—it is a lifeline for those facing their darkest moments. Through these five families, we see the true power of resilience, hope, and the belief that no matter how hard life gets, we always have the strength to rise again.

If his story has touched these families so profoundly, imagine what it can do for you. What challenge are you facing today? Perhaps, like them, you just need the right inspiration to remind you that you are stronger than you think.

Ragnar Klavan spoke to the ECHO and other media outlets about the contract situations of his former Liverpool team-mates Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk.

Ragnar Klavan is hopeful that his former team-mates Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold sign new contracts with Liverpool. Klavan joined the Reds in the summer of 2016 and spent two seasons at Anfield.

Alexander-Arnold broke into the first team during the Estonian’s maiden year with Liverpool, with Salah and Van Dijk signing the following summer and January 2018 respectively.

The trio are all out of contract at the end of the current campaign, with it an ongoing sub-plot as the Reds look to close in on the Premier League title. While Alexander-Arnold is wanted by Real Madrid and has kept mostly quiet about his future, both Salah and Van Dijk have publicly admitted they wish to stay at Anfield.

And having kept a close eye on his former club’s fortunes since leaving Liverpool in 2018, Klavan’s is hopeful his old team-mates all agree new terms.

“Hopefully they will find a solution,” he told the ECHO and other media outlets. “It’s complicated of course but I hope from the bottom of my heart that they will stay here.

“Of course, yeah, I would be really happy (if Salah signs a new contract) but I don’t know what is the situation there. But I would love to see him play and more years here in Liverpool.”

Now 39 years old, Klavan only retired from football last December. He made his second appearance for Liverpool Legends on Saturday in the 2-0 victory over Chelsea, completing the full 90 minutes, and remains the only ‘Jurgen Klopp legend’ to play for the veterans.

He has been impressed by the Reds under Arne Slot this season, backing them to win the Premier League, and admits his affinity to the club is as strong as ever following his latest return to Merseyside.

“I think so, it might be I’m still Jurgen’s first legend,” he said. “They are doing good (this season). Some disappointing weeks but you can also see the new manager coming in, they just keep on going.

“You can see that determination of course. The last couple of weeks have been a little bit rocky but I think they are in a good spot to win the league.

“It’s amazing (to come back to Liverpool), and brings back a lot of memories. Of course for me it was only two years of those memories, for other players it’s more and more.

“But to see and bring out this kind of crowd, full house at Anfield, that means that this club is really important for this city. You can feel and to do it for the charity is amazing.

“It’s one of the biggest, if not the biggest, clubs in the world and you can see it by the fans. This is amazing. For me, I was here only two years but you can feel that warmth of the city and the club.”

Isaac Kearney Steals the Show at Anfield Legends charity match with a Statement That Shook the Legends

The Liverpool Legends Charity Match at Anfield was meant to be a nostalgic gathering of football greats, but Isaac Kearney ensured it became more than just a game. With a performance worthy of applause and a statement that left fans and players talking, Kearney stole the spotlight in a way no one expected.

A Night of Football Royalty

The highly anticipated match saw Liverpool Legends take on Chelsea Legends, with stars like Steven Gerrard, Dirk Kuyt, Jerzy Dudek, and Peter Crouch gracing the pitch. The game had everything—brilliant goals, heated moments, and the passion that makes football special. However, despite the legends’ presence, one unexpected name made the headlines: Isaac Kearney.

The Moment That Stole the Show

During a heated exchange on the field, Kearney turned to the crowd and made a statement that sent shockwaves across the stadium:

“Common Tash!”

At first, many were puzzled. Who was “Tash”? What did Kearney mean? Was it a challenge, an inside joke, or a callout to an old rival?

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1BZYR9FHv9/?mibextid=qi2Omg

Who is ‘Tash’?

Speculation ran wild. Some believed he was referring to Tashreeq Matthews, a South African footballer. Others thought it was a playful jab at Natasha Dowie, who featured in the match. But one theory gained the most traction: he was calling out an unnamed figure known among football insiders.

https://youtube.com/shorts/5Ijn3GOg1-Y?si=zyRLZyyR4zEM1KVc

Reactions from Players and Fans

Kearney’s remark quickly became the talking point of the match. Social media exploded with memes, theories, and debates. Peter Crouch laughed it off in a post-match interview, jokingly saying, “I wish I knew who Tash was because they must be a big deal!”

Steven Gerrard took a more measured approach, saying, “Isaac brought some energy to the game, and that’s what these matches are all about—having fun, entertaining the fans, and keeping the spirit of football alive.”

Meanwhile, fans in the stadium erupted in chants of “Common Tash! Common Tash!”, turning it into an instant football meme.

Beyond the Game

Isaac Kearney’s statement may have been spontaneous, but it captured the essence of football: the unpredictable moments that stay with us long after the final whistle. Whether “Tash” is a rival, a friend, or just a name that happened to fit the moment, one thing is certain—Kearney turned a charity match into an unforgettable spectacle

As the dust settles, the football world is left with one question: Who—or what—is ‘Tash’ really?

Isaac Kearney Steals the Show at Anfield Legend charity match with a Statement That Shook the Legends

The Liverpool Legends Charity Match at Anfield was meant to be a nostalgic gathering of football greats, but Isaac Kearney ensured it became more than just a game. With a performance worthy of applause and a statement that left fans and players talking, Kearney stole the spotlight in a way no one expected.

A Night of Football Royalty

The highly anticipated match saw Liverpool Legends take on Chelsea Legends, with stars like Steven Gerrard, Dirk Kuyt, Jerzy Dudek, and Peter Crouch gracing the pitch. The game had everything—brilliant goals, heated moments, and the passion that makes football special. However, despite the legends’ presence, one unexpected name made the headlines: Isaac Kearney.

The Moment That Stole the Show

During a heated exchange on the field, Kearney turned to the crowd and made a statement that sent shockwaves across the stadium:

“Common Tash!”

At first, many were puzzled. Who was “Tash”? What did Kearney mean? Was it a challenge, an inside joke, or a callout to an old rival?

https://youtube.com/shorts/5Ijn3GOg1-Y?si=3yQA63AnP2pw9RmQ

Who is ‘Tash’?

Speculation ran wild. Some believed he was referring to Tashreeq Matthews, a South African footballer. Others thought it was a playful jab at Natasha Dowie, who featured in the match. But one theory gained the most traction: he was calling out an unnamed figure known among football insiders.

Reactions from Players and Fans

Kearney’s remark quickly became the talking point of the match. Social media exploded with memes, theories, and debates. Peter Crouch laughed it off in a post-match interview, jokingly saying, “I wish I knew who Tash was because they must be a big deal!”

Steven Gerrard took a more measured approach, saying, “Isaac brought some energy to the game, and that’s what these matches are all about—having fun, entertaining the fans, and keeping the spirit of football alive.”

Meanwhile, fans in the stadium erupted in chants of “Common Tash! Common Tash!”, turning it into an instant football meme.

Beyond the Game

Isaac Kearney’s statement may have been spontaneous, but it captured the essence of football: the unpredictable moments that stay with us long after the final whistle. Whether “Tash” is a rival, a friend, or just a name that happened to fit the moment, one thing is certain—Kearney turned a charity match into an unforgettable spectacle

As the dust settles, the football world is left with one question: Who—or what—is ‘Tash’ really?

Liverpool legend furious at being substituted during win over Chelsea

After being substituted during the second half of the Legends Charity Match win over Chelsea, one ex-Reds striker could not mask his frustration at the decision to take him off.

Former Liverpool forward Djibril Cisse failed to mask his frustrations after being taken off in the annual Legends Charity Match at Anfield against Chelsea.

The Frenchman, who represented the Reds between 2004 and 2007, made his return to L4 as he partnered ex-teammate Peter Crouch in attack. However, the 43-year-old showed that he no longer possessed the pace that came to characterize his performances during his playing days in front of the Kop in the closing minutes of the encounter.

Chilean winger Mark Gonzalez had embarked on a trademark mazy run down the left-wing before crossing the ball to the far post late on in the second half. Cisse was unable to get on the end of what was an inviting lofted ball, as he was left holding his hamstring before hobbling away in the 80th minute of play.

After witnessing the former Auxerre and Marseille forward appearing to pull up after this passage of play, Sir Kenny Dalglish resolved to bring the retired star off the field. Despite grimacing only moments earlier and appearing to be in some pain, Cisse seemingly still did not want to come off, though.

In fact, as he left trudged off the pitch, the ex-Sunderland and QPR man made no secret of his apparent disapproval, as Dirk Kuyt came on in his place to see out the game. The striker, who scored 24 times in 84 outings for the Merseysiders, drew a blank on his return to Anfield as the Liverpool Legends saw out a 2-0 victory.

Reacting to the substitution, former Reds captain and pundit Phil Thompson admitted that the Dalglish and his assistants on the day had very little choice but to bring Cisse off. He explained to Peter McDowall on the LFC TV commentary: “Listen, they have to protect the players at this age.”

As Cisse approached the Liverpool dugout, he appeared to ask the coaching staff why he had been substituted for the closing stages of the clash. Seeing the funny side of the situation as the Frenchman discussed the decision with Steven Gillespie, McDowall laughed: “He’s never changed, has he?”

The 2005 Champions League winner joined ex-skippers Steven Gerrard and Sami Hyypia in returning to Anfield for the game, which was put on to raise money for the LFC Foundation. Alongside the pair, ex-Kop cult heroes including Crouch, Ragnar Klavan and Jerzy Dudek also made an appearance.

On the opposing side of the battle, Chelsea’s Legends side consisted of Stamford Bridge icons Claude Makelele, Dennis Wise and Gianfranco Zola. Forward duo Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Eidur Gudjohnsen also were present as they too made the trip to Merseyside for the charity clash.

In the end, Crouch’s brace was enough to separate the two sides after what proved to be an entertaining spectacle at Anfield. The former England striker even performed his famous Robot celebration in front of the Kop, to the delight of the 60,000 fans in attendance.

Following the game, John Barnes and John Aldridge addressed the “first dispute” to have happened in the annual Legends Charity Game as they gave their take on Cisse’s frustrations. Aldridge, who had been assisting Liverpool’s manager Dalglish, reflected: “For the first time ever we had a dispute, Djibril wasn’t happy. We all thought he’d pulled up”

Meanwhile, Barnes gave his perspective, adding: “We all thought he was injured because he pulled up, but he said, ‘I never said, I never said’, I said, ‘yeah, but you looked injured. You never said you were injured but you looked injured’, but he said he was fine.”