Trent Alexander-Arnold will return to Anfield with Real Madrid on Tuesday, marking his first visit since leaving Liverpool last summer. The absence of the right back has been felt acutely by the Reds and their supporters. Just six months ago, Alexander-Arnold announced he would not renew his contract with Liverpool and would be pursuing a “new challenge” in Spain.
His departure resonated deeply with Liverpool fans, especially since he was a local boy and vice-captain, having spent over 20 years with the club. Following his announcement, he faced mixed reactions, including boos from certain fans when he substituted against Arsenal.
Alexander-Arnold’s Transition to Real Madrid
Despite initial enthusiasm, Alexander-Arnold’s season has not gone smoothly at Real Madrid. He has played only 156 minutes, without scoring or assisting any goals. Changes in coaching, with Xabi Alonso taking over, led to competition for the right-back position with Dani Carvajal, who recently underwent surgery.
Adding to Alexander-Arnold’s challenges was a hamstring injury during a Champions League match against Marseille. His exclusion from the England squad for World Cup Qualifiers in September coincided with Liverpool’s struggles, igniting speculation among some fans about their capability to thrive without him.
Liverpool’s Current Struggles
As Liverpool prepares to face Real Madrid, they find themselves in a difficult position, sitting 10th in the Champions League standings. They have struggled in the Premier League, suffering four consecutive defeats that have derailed their title defense.
With Alexander-Arnold’s injury issues, Liverpool’s defense has been vulnerable. New manager Arne Slot faces challenges in finding a suitable replacement in the right-back position. Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong have yet to fill the gap left by Alexander-Arnold’s unique style and skill set.
Impact on Team Dynamics
Alexander-Arnold’s absence has created additional challenges for key players like Mohamed Salah, whose performance has dipped. Statistics from last season highlighted Alexander-Arnold’s pivotal role in supplying Salah with line-breaking passes, significantly enhancing Liverpool’s attacking potential.
In the absence of the right back, Salah has been doubled up upon by opposing defenses, struggling to find his form. This season, he has recorded only one goal from open play since the campaign began, raising concerns about Liverpool’s attacking threat.
Reflecting on Alexander-Arnold’s Departure
As Alexander-Arnold prepares to face his former team, his mixed emotions about returning home are palpable. He has stated that regardless of how the Liverpool fans receive him, his memories of the club are cherished and enduring. The return promises not only nostalgia but also the possibility of further highlighting Liverpool’s current shortcomings.
Ultimately, the upcoming match against Real Madrid serves as a reminder of Alexander-Arnold’s influence on the Liverpool squad. As fans reflect on the significance of his departure, questions loom about how they can successfully navigate the season without one of their most gifted players.
