Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to make his first trip back to Anfield wearing the Real Madrid kit, but it won’t be on the pitch.
The former Liverpool star, who left for a £10million summer move to Spain, has been named on the bench for the clash against his boyhood club.
At 26, he’s prepared for a chilly reception from fans who watched him rise through the ranks at Liverpool.
Benched but Ready
Xabi Alonso has opted to start Fede Valverde in Alexander-Arnold’s usual position, as he did in last weekend’s Clasico, leaving the English defender to watch from the sidelines.
Alexander-Arnold had hoped for first-team action, especially after recovering from a hamstring injury that limited his early months in Madrid, following an injury to captain Dani Carvajal, who is now sidelined until January due to a knee issue.
A Hostile Welcome Before Kick-Off
The atmosphere around Anfield hinted at the tension to come even before the teams took the field.
A mural celebrating Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool career on Sybil Road was defaced with white paint and graffiti reading “Adios El Rata” and labeling him a “rat.”
This marks the third time the artwork honoring the defender has been vandalized since his departure.
Local authorities cleaned the mural ahead of kick-off, leaving only faint traces of the slogans.
Staying Loyal to Liverpool
Despite anticipating boos from some sections of the crowd, Alexander-Arnold stressed that his feelings for Liverpool will never waver.
“Whatever way I’m received is the decision of the fans,” he told Amazon Prime.
“I’ll always love the club. I’ll always be thankful for the opportunities and the things we achieved together—they’ll live with me forever.
No matter what, my feelings won’t change toward Liverpool.
I’ve got memories there that will last me a lifetime.”
Former Manager Offers Support
Alexander-Arnold’s previous manager, Arne Slot, also expressed his unwavering respect for the defender.
“I have great memories of the player and the human being,” Slot said.
“He will get a warm welcome from me. With the fans, I have no clue, but that’s for sure.”
A Poignant Tribute to Diogo Jota
During his visit to Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold took part in a touching ceremony honoring the late Diogo Jota.
Real Madrid manager Alonso laid a wreath, while Alexander-Arnold left his own bouquet, a handwritten note, and a red PlayStation controller in tribute to Jota’s love of gaming. His note read:
“My mate Diogo. You are so missed but still so loved.
Yours and Andre’s memory will always live on.
I smile every time I think about you and will always remember the great times we shared.
Miss you mate, every day. Love Trent and family. Forever 20. YNWA.”