Photo by Damine178 licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Virgil van Dijk insists Liverpool’s Premier League title celebrations will remain focused and united, even with the looming departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold.

The 26-year-old right-back confirmed last week that he will leave Liverpool when his contract expires in June, with a move to Real Madrid widely reported. On Sunday, Alexander-Arnold made his first appearance since the announcement, coming off the bench during the 2-2 draw against Arsenal — and was met with a mix of cheers and boos from the Anfield crowd.

Van Dijk, Liverpool’s captain and vocal leader, made it clear the club plans to send Alexander-Arnold off with full honours as they prepare to lift their record-equalling 20th English league title on Sunday, 25 May.

"We want to win two more games and after the final whistle, including him [Alexander-Arnold], lift the trophy up and celebrate like we have never done before," said Van Dijk.

“We’re Gutted He’s Leaving”

Alexander-Arnold’s departure marks the end of an era for a player who came through the club’s academy and played a central role in Liverpool’s success under Jürgen Klopp. Van Dijk admitted the team will feel his absence deeply.

"We are gutted that he's not here with us next year because he's a fantastic player with outstanding, exceptional qualities that we have seen over the last seven years."

The Dutch defender emphasized that while the reaction from fans on Sunday was mixed, the team stands firmly behind their longtime teammate.

"He has to deal with it. We as a team have to deal with that as well... It's not easy, not at all. We're here for him anyway."

No Distractions from the Title

When asked if the right-back’s impending exit could take the shine off the title party, Van Dijk was clear.

"I don't think so. It shouldn't. There's a lot more players that also deserve an amazing day."

An open-top bus parade is scheduled to take place through the streets of Liverpool the day after the Anfield celebration, reinforcing the club’s desire to mark the achievement in full.

“He Wants Something Different”

Van Dijk also spoke about how Alexander-Arnold’s choice differs from those of himself and Mohamed Salah, both of whom recently signed two-year extensions.

"Everyone shares different opinions and he feels like he has done it all, and he did it, and he wants to try something different," said Van Dijk.

He acknowledged the speculation linking Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid but reiterated that every player’s journey is different.

"You are speaking about one of the biggest clubs of all in Real Madrid, who he might go to as I read in the media."

Van Dijk, meanwhile, expressed his full commitment to Liverpool.

"There were loads of other options, but Liverpool is the place for me."

Stay with NeverEndingSports.com for full coverage of Liverpool’s final fixtures, title celebrations, and the latest updates on Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future.