Exclusive Interview with Mamadou Sakho on His Liverpool Transfer and Trophy Near-Misses
Mamadou Sakho signing for Liverpool FC at Melwood Training Ground.
Photo by John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Trent Alexander-Arnold is reportedly set to leave Liverpool this summer, as the club’s vice-captain appears to be nearing a free transfer to Real Madrid when his contract ends. This news is surprising given his aspirations to captain the Reds and his consistent declarations of living his dream at Anfield.
The 26-year-old has garnered every major accolade with Liverpool and is poised to depart as a two-time Premier League champion, leaving the club in a robust position.
Unlike other local heroes from the Premier League era, who faced continuous struggles for European prominence during their time, Alexander-Arnold’s potential departure comes while Liverpool is at its peak.
In contrast, Mamadou Sakho’s journey began at Paris Saint-Germain, where at just 23, he made an £18m move to Liverpool in September 2013. Having also attracted attention from clubs like Barcelona and Bayern Munich, he highlights the influence of former Liverpool player Nicolas Anelka in his choice to join the Reds.
Reflecting on his time at Liverpool, Sakho recalls that despite having opportunities at top clubs, his desire to play for Liverpool led to a natural decision. While he acknowledges the challenge of leaving PSG, he feels his journey was meant to be at Anfield.
During his time, Sakho was close to securing a league title but was left heartbroken after the infamous slip from Steven Gerrard against Chelsea in the 2013/14 season cost them dearly. Although disappointed, Sakho expressed understanding for the mistakes made by Gerrard, acknowledging the latter’s legacy at Liverpool.
Ultimately, Sakho’s Liverpool career was marked by both opportunities and near-misses, but he believes it shaped him into a better player, as he experienced invaluable moments alongside talented teammates and forged lasting memories.
