As Liverpool supporters gave Trent Alexander-Arnold a hero’s goodbye on his Anfield swansong, he broke down in tears.

When he took Conor Bradley’s place at halftime, fans greeted him with a flurry of cheers and ovation, and they showed him the same respect when he circled the stands at the end.

As he waved goodbye to the family he has served for twenty years, the departing star, whose sat-nav is set for Real Madrid, called it the “best day of his life.”

Players who expire their contracts may leave a lasting impression on Liverpool supporters, and Alexander-Arnold said that he had been anxious about how he would be received after being jeered recently.

However, a stirring speech given by Jurgen Klopp on Friday, who watched with pride as Liverpool drew 1-1 with Crystal Palace, seems to have changed the sentiments of many detractors from resentment to appreciation for the right-back’s trophy-filled tenure.

As he talked to Sky Sports, Alexander-Arnold found it difficult to contain his tears. His brothers joined them on the field as he embraced his parents, Dianne and Michael.

He said, “After what had happened, I wasn’t sure what to expect when I stepped out at Anfield today.”

However, I told the manager that I wanted to play for the team again, and he trusted me. I’m really grateful for the welcome I received. Today was the most cherished and cared for day of my life.

One day, I hope, the club’s followers and admirers will be able to appreciate the effort I put into this team.

“Twenty years is a very long time from six to twenty-six.” Being a member of this club has been an honor and a privilege, and I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it.

“I will never forget these moments in my life.” I will always remember this day as the best of my life.

In order to jump into Liverpool’s team photo with the trophy and take his place on the floor in the middle of the joyful group, Alexander-Arnold cut short his interview with Daniel Sturridge.

The 26-year-old hammered his chest and kissed his badge during a heart-stopping victory lap that included the Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand, the Main Stand, the Kop, and the Anfield Road Stand.

As he raised the trophy to the audience, you could feel all the pent-up emotions he was feeling: relief at his heartfelt farewell, nostalgia at his leaving, and excitement at winning a second Premier League title.

In addition to winning two Premier League championships, a Champions League, an FA Cup, an EFL Cup, the FIFA and UEFA Super Cups, and an FA Community Shield, Alexander-Arnold has played 354 games for the Reds.

Few defenders in Premier League history have had such a revolutionary influence on the right-back position, and none have nearly as many assists as he does (Andy Robertson has 60).

He will get the opportunity to play with Jude Bellingham, one of his closest friends, and compete for the Ballon d’Or if he moves to Real Madrid, which has not yet been formally confirmed.

He was jeered against Arsenal earlier this month, though, since leaving on a free has triggered strong feelings in one of the nation’s most fervent supporters.

Alexander-Arnold seemed aloof during Monday’s loss to Brighton as he stood silently with his hands on his hips while Liverpool players cheered their raucous supporters after the game.

Speaking at the LFC Foundation dinner at Liverpool Cathedral on Friday, Klopp, who made Alexander-Arnold’s debut against Tottenham in October 2016, denounced the animosity of some supporters.

“Don’t forget what he’s done for this club, but don’t be disappointed,” Klopp said, holding up a signed Alexander-Arnold shirt.

When I heard the jeering, I turned off the television. Nothing could have disappointed me more. This is not who we are.

On Sunday, fans seemed to take that message seriously. It was a glorious day for one of Liverpool’s contemporary legends, despite the fact that they became the first Premier League winners to lose in the same season after winning the title.

All of his teammates gave him hugs, including the avuncular goalie Alisson’s very bear-like one, while the opponents congratulated him.

“I’m just eternally grateful for everything that I’ve been given,” he said to his teammates during this week’s training. Since I’ve been here for 20 years, it feels much more special to me than the moments we all dream of.

It’s an incredible phase in my life; it encompasses everything I’ve ever strived for and dreamed of.

“A lot of the guys, especially these guys here [points to Van Dijk and Alisson], have seen me go from a boy to a man, and I wanted to share it with you guys and build these bonds.”

“I will always cherish the relationships and brotherhood I have with you all.” I have memories and stories I can share with my children and grandchildren. Although I wasn’t ready for this, I am grateful for everything you have done.

At full time, Arne Slot, who this week said he had been asking for more from the right-back during training, embraced him warmly and murmured something in his ear.

Back in the dressing room, Alexander-Arnold danced with his teammates as if there were no tomorrows while the champagne was popping.

And it’s true that he doesn’t have many tomorrows left in Liverpool terms. However, since he will always have today, it is less important now.