Former Liverpool Defender Discusses Potential Key Exits: ‘I Wouldn’t Blame Trent Alexander-Arnold for Wanting to Join Real Madrid’

Liverpool is heading to Tottenham Hotspur with the goal of preserving their top spot in the Premier League, largely thanks to the outstanding performances of three key players this season.

Mo Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold have been instrumental in the Reds’ remarkable start under Arne Slot, resulting in 11 wins and just one loss in their first 15 Premier League matches.

However, the expiration of the trio’s contracts is drawing nearer, with all of them poised to become free agents this summer.

Former Liverpool defender shares thoughts on Trent Alexander-Arnold

No resolution has been reached concerning the future of the trio – former Liverpool defender Neil Ruddock believes discussions are happening behind closed doors, but he wouldn’t fault any of them if they chose to leave. Alexander-Arnold, in particular, has been frequently linked to Real Madrid.

“Players reach the end of their contracts, but I’m certain they’ve been in talks; no one waits until after Christmas, I’m sure there’s a lot happening,” Ruddock told FFT.

“I’m certain Liverpool is doing everything possible to keep all three players, but as a footballer, it’s understandable if they wish to experience playing abroad, especially for Real Madrid – for a young talent like Trent, you can’t really fault him.

“For the older players like Salah, I can see that as well. Why would they spend a few more years if they believe they might not reach their former level and lose that fan-favorite status?

“There will be numerous discussions taking place among the players, their representatives, and the club, with many factors to consider. For all three of them, I sincerely hope they stay, but it’s also easy to understand if they choose to leave.”

Ruddock made these remarks while unveiling a new syndicate with Old Gold Racing, providing fans the chance to own a stake in a new racehorse with him, for £60. The horse, named Plus Point, will race under the new colors of Razor Ruddock Racing.

“During my playing days, my teammates were always passionate about racing – Steve McManaman, Michael Owen, who now owns his stables,” Ruddock shared.

“I’ve always wanted to be a part of it and go racing, but I never found the time due to responsibilities like picking up the kids or work commitments.

“Now that the kids are older, it’s the perfect time for me to enjoy racing. I’ve reached the glorious age of 56, with a bit more free time, so my agent and I connected with Old Gold, and we devised this idea of starting a racehorse syndicate.

“We’re inviting everyone to join in; it’s a racing club with a unique twist – I’ll be there throughout, and we hope to get as many members as possible to join us at the races.

“We’ll have a fun time, enjoy some drinks, and cheer Plus Point as it races to victory.

“It’s not just about owning a stake in the horse; it’s also about the atmosphere and experience. We want to celebrate and enjoy racing together.”

Stay tuned for more insights from Ruddock in a forthcoming issue of FourFourTwo magazine, and find further information about the syndicate at https://oldgoldracing.com/horses/plus-point