Trent hunts for greater glory with Spanish exit route

The backlash has been more intense than anticipated, possibly fuelled by the instant outrage of the social media era, where reaction often precedes reflection.

- John Brewin

Trent Alexander-Arnold's free transfer from Liverpool to Real Madrid has dominated headlines and airwaves across England, turning what would have been a quiet international break into a storm of debate.

Alexander-Arnold has made a choice that Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher never did—leaving Liverpool at the peak of his career.

Instead, he follows in the footsteps of fellow academy graduates Steve McManaman and Michael Owen, whose departures for Real left lasting marks on their Liverpool legacies.

McManaman joined Madrid on a free transfer in 1999, while Owen, the 2001 Ballon d'Or winner, moved in 2004 for just £9 million (S$15.6 million) after allowing his contract to run down.