Alexander-Arnold's Real Madrid Return to Liverpool Clouded by Injury and Doubt

Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to return to Anfield with Real Madrid for a Champions League match against his former club Liverpool, but his participation as a starter remains uncertain due to a recent hamstring injury sustained in September. Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso confirmed Alexander-Arnold is available for selection, though he has not featured in recent matches and is competing for his place against other players like Federico Valverde, who has been filling in at right-back. Alexander-Arnold's move from Liverpool to Real Madrid was marked by mixed emotions among fans, who booed him after his decision to leave, reflecting the complicated nature of his departure despite his achievements with Liverpool. Alonso, a former Liverpool player himself, emphasized the importance of supporting Alexander-Arnold as he adapts to his new club and highlighted the defender's history with Liverpool. The player himself acknowledged the emotional weight of returning to Anfield so soon and expressed respect for his former teammates, indicating he would refrain from celebrating if he scored against Liverpool. Real Madrid's squad for the trip includes Alexander-Arnold, but injuries to key players like Dani Carvajal may influence the lineup, with Federico Valverde likely to continue at right-back if Alexander-Arnold does not start.