Real Madrid rub salt into Liverpool's wounds again

Real Madrid has an irresistible appeal.

Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to join Real Madrid in the next transfer window. This is shocking news for Liverpool fans, because Real Madrid is not only the traditional rival of the port city team but also the club that has faced them in the last two Champions League finals.

Although Liverpool players moving to Madrid is not too rare, Alexander-Arnold's transfer still makes fans of the English port city club feel very painful.

Old wounds not healed

While Steven Gerrard, the hero of Liverpool, firmly rejected the invitations from Real Madrid, his predecessors and teammates could not resist. Real Madrid, with its strong attraction and resounding reputation, has successfully recruited many bright talents from Liverpool.

The likes of Jude Bellingham, who could have been a star at Anfield if not for Real Madrid, ultimately chose the Bernabeu over the club. Now, Alexander-Arnold, who has been a Liverpool icon for years, is facing a decision that could leave Liverpool fans heartbroken.

Alexander-Arnold's transfer is reminiscent of Steve McManaman, who left Liverpool on a free transfer in 1999. Liverpool were going through a difficult period in the late 1990s, when they were facing the dominance of Manchester United and Arsenal. McManaman was a shining star in Liverpool's squad, but refused to sign a new contract and decided to leave to join Real Madrid.

Rumors of Alexander-Arnold joining Real Madrid remind Liverpool fans of past pain.

McManaman’s departure came as a huge shock to Liverpool fans at the time. Not only did they lose a great talent, they also suffered a financial loss, as they did not receive any transfer fee from Madrid. McManaman was criticised as a traitor in his final months at Anfield, and many felt bitter to see him leave without any compensation.

Alexander-Arnold, like McManaman, is a key player for Liverpool, winning the Premier League, Champions League and many other major trophies with the club. However, the 26-year-old now faces a major decision in his career. If he decides to join Real Madrid, Alexander-Arnold will not only leave Liverpool but will also face huge pressure from the fans.

When Real Madrid is the irresistible destination

For McManaman, joining Real Madrid was a major turning point in his career. Despite some initial struggles at Real Madrid, McManaman eventually became an important part of the Spanish Royal team, winning another Champions League in 2003 and achieving certain successes in his career. After leaving Liverpool, McManaman not only found a place at Real Madrid but also helped the team regain its position in Europe, with important victories.

Michael Owen followed a similar path in 2004. Owen joined Real Madrid after his contract with Liverpool ended and was a notable signing for President Florentino Perez. However, Owen's life at Real Madrid was not easy. He struggled to adapt to the new environment, and despite a decent season with 13 goals in La Liga, Owen could not overcome fierce competition from stars such as Raul and Ronaldo "Alien". Owen eventually returned to England and joined Newcastle, although he always hoped to return to Liverpool.

The departure of Xabi Alonso in 2009 was also a huge blow to Liverpool. Alonso was an integral part of the team's excellent midfield trio, along with Gerrard and Mascherano. However, Alonso was signed by Real Madrid for £30 million, and his departure left Liverpool without a great talent. Like McManaman and Owen, Alonso could not resist the lure of Real Madrid, a club that always has a strong appeal for players.

With the loss of McManaman, Owen, Alonso and now Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool are facing another huge heartbreak as they see key players join their biggest rivals.

The likes of McManaman, Owen, Alonso and now Alexander-Arnold have all been unable to resist the lure of Real Madrid - a club with a reputation for attracting the world's best players. While Liverpool are already a great team with a rich history, Real Madrid are still the club that every player would love to join if given the chance. The wealth of trophies, prestige and ability to conquer major tournaments make 'Los Blancos' an irresistible destination for stars.

With the loss of McManaman, Owen, Alonso and now Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool have had to deal with the heartache of seeing key players join their biggest rivals. Their departures are not only a loss in terms of personnel, but also a reminder of the power and appeal of Real Madrid, a club that any player dreams of wearing the legendary white shirt.

For Alexander-Arnold, his decision will now have a significant impact on both him and Liverpool. Will the "Three Lions" defender follow in the footsteps of his seniors like McManaman, Owen and Alonso, or will he choose to stay with Liverpool long-term to continue conquering the peak with his hometown team? Time will tell.

Source: https://znews.vn/real-madrid-lai-xat-muoi-vao-noi-dau-cua-liverpool-post1541227.html