Liverpool fans have once again made headlines after booing the national anthem, “God Save the King,” ahead of their Community Shield match against Crystal Palace at Wembley. The lively Reds, hoping for another trophy under Arne Slot’s management, showed their disapproval loud and clear. But what’s behind this strong reaction?
For many Liverpudlians, the anthem symbolises historical grievances. It harks back to the 1980s when the city felt isolated during the Conservative government’s so-called ‘managed decline.’ The Hillsborough disaster and the government’s handling of it only intensified feelings of disconnect. This sentiment is summed up in the iconic banner, ‘Scouse not English,’ seen regularly at Anfield. Today, the visible struggle outside the stadium, like foodbanks, highlights ongoing socio-economic challenges and deepens the divide.
This sentiment isn’t just about football. Many Liverpool fans also look the other way when it comes to supporting the England national team in major tournaments, feeling a strong sense of regional identity over national.
Recently, Liverpool faced backlash when following Premier League’s suggestion to play the anthem ahead of a home game, which coincided with the King’s coronation. As expected, the response was resounding boos, reflecting the deep and complex connection — or lack thereof — fans feel toward the anthem and the broader establishment.
Meanwhile, Liverpool’s star striker Mo Salah is in the spotlight for calling out UEFA on social media. This was after UEFA’s tribute to footballer Suleiman Al-Obeid, known as the “Palestinian Pele,” failed to mention the circumstances of his death. Salah, who has a massive online following, urged for clarity, and his call for peace amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza struck a chord with many, including former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn.
The mix of football, politics, and social issues shows that the pitch is not just a place for the game but also a platform for fans and players to express their broader beliefs and concerns.