Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah was critical of the “harsh” Liverpool fans who booed Trent Alexander-Arnold in the wake of his announced exit at the end of the season.
The defender is expected to join Real Madrid upon the expiration of his contract in June.
The Englishman, who revealed his decision to leave his boyhood club was jeered by Liverpool fans when he came on as a substitute in the second half of the 2-2 draw against Arsenal at Anfield.
Salah admitted that he was downcast by the taunts aimed at Alexander-Arnold, who faces his last game as a Liverpool player against Crystal Palace on Sunday.
“Absolutely. I was surprised because this is not how we act as Liverpool fans,” the Egypt attacker said to Gary Neville in a Sky Sports interview.
“I think somehow the fans were being harsh with him. I think he didn’t deserve it at the time, he deserved the fans to treat him the best way possible because he gave it all to the fans.”
Salah was also involved in a prolonged contract saga this season, but eventually tied his future to the Reds by signing a new two-year contract.
Calling for Liverpool fans to give Alexander-Arnold a more respectful farewell in his last game, Salah said: “Imagine someone who gives you his all for 20 years. It shouldn’t be like this.”I hope that will change next game, against Brighton or in the last game of the season, because he deserves the farewell.”
Liverpool-born Alexander-Arnold, who made his first-team debut in 2016, has made 353 senior appearances for Liverpool in all competitions, netting 23 goals.
The 26-year-old has won two Premier League titles, the Champions League, the FA Cup and the League Cup with the Reds.
Salah admitted it will be emotional to say goodbye to one of his close friends when the season ends.
“I told him yesterday, don’t give me eye contact in your farewell. I really love him. I think he deserves the best farewell leaving the club,” he continued.
“He has done a lot for the city and done a lot for the club, and he’s one of probably the best players in the club’s history. He gave it all.
“I think he needed a new challenge. He spoke to me about it. It’s his decision for sure. He’s 25, 26 years old and won it all twice or three times. What more can he have done?”
