Trent Alexander-Arnold could be set for a dramatic return to Anfield next month, despite earlier concerns over his fitness.
The right-back suffered a hamstring injury in September that forced him off against Marseille after just three minutes, casting doubt over his availability for Liverpool’s high-profile clash.
The initial prognosis suggested Alexander-Arnold was racing against time to face his former club, but reports now indicate his recovery is progressing well, offering hope for an emotional homecoming.
Struggles at Real Madrid
Since joining Real Madrid for £10million over the summer, Alexander-Arnold has found it tough to cement his place in Xabi Alonso’s starting XI.
The 26-year-old has only started two of the five games he’s been available for, facing stiff competition from long-serving club captain Dani Carvajal.
His injury hasn’t helped matters, but seeing him back in training this week, and posting on Instagram that he will be “back soon,” suggests he’s on the mend.
Some medical staff reportedly even believe he could return for the El Clasico against Barcelona on October 26.
Returning to Anfield
A return to Anfield would be charged with emotion. Alexander-Arnold left Liverpool this summer after spending his entire career at the club since age six.
His departure was met with boos from Reds fans when he appeared as a substitute against Arsenal in May, complicating his legacy despite his status as a club hero.
Liverpool supporters were particularly surprised by the low transfer fee to Madrid and his fluency in Spanish, which fueled suspicions that he had long intended to leave.
Nonetheless, Alexander-Arnold played a key role in the Reds’ success under Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot, winning two Premier League titles and a Champions League, and even rising to vice-captain.
High Expectations in Spain
The expectations are equally intense in Madrid, where Alexander-Arnold has reunited with close friend Jude Bellingham.
Alonso has acknowledged the challenge of securing a regular spot at right-back, stressing that healthy competition is key.
“Fortunately, we have healthy competition within the team,” Alonso said. “It also happens in other positions, like centre back or winger.
Whoever deserves it will play; it’s going to be very repetitive all year.”
Since his hamstring injury, Alexander-Arnold has missed four LaLiga matches and a Champions League fixture against Kairat Almaty.
A strong performance against Liverpool could go a long way in winning over the Madrid faithful.
Fans and Former Teammates React
Jamie Carragher, reflecting on the boos Alexander-Arnold received in May, has publicly expressed his disappointment.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Carragher said it was disheartening to see a player, giving their all on the pitch, booed by fans.
“There’s a lot of unhappy people in Liverpool about the situation,” he said.
“I understand there’s ill feeling, but booing one of your own players when they’re playing is not for me.”
If Alexander-Arnold does take the field against Liverpool next month, all eyes will be on both the reception he receives and how he performs against the team that helped define his career.