A Homecoming Full of Emotion
When Trent Alexander-Arnold walks back onto the Anfield turf this Tuesday wearing a Real Madrid jersey, it will mark the end of a chapter that defined an era of modern Liverpool football. The English right-back, who grew from a local academy prospect into a world-class player, left his boyhood club in the summer, a decision that sparked heartbreak and outrage among supporters.
After a decade of brilliance that brought two Premier League titles, a Champions League trophy, and multiple domestic cups, Alexander-Arnold’s move to Spain was seen by many as betrayal. However, time has a way of changing perspectives — and Tuesday night’s Champions League showdown will reveal whether Anfield’s passionate crowd has forgiven or forgotten.
A Divisive Departure
The 27-year-old announced his departure at the end of last season, with the news met by a storm of boos during his final appearances. Fans felt blindsided by his decision to join Real Madrid on a free transfer, though the Spanish giants later agreed to pay £8.4 million to speed up his registration for the Club World Cup.
Despite the controversy, many supporters still recognize Alexander-Arnold’s legacy as “the Scouser in our team,” a player who represented the city’s pride on the global stage. Former manager Jürgen Klopp publicly urged fans to show more respect, reminding them of Trent’s immense contribution to Liverpool’s golden era.
How Will Fans React?
Current Liverpool boss Arne Slot admitted uncertainty about the crowd’s reaction:
“I have great memories of Trent as both a player and a person. How the fans will respond, I really don’t know. But from me, he’ll get a warm welcome.”
Former defender Stephen Warnock believes emotions will run high but hopes for a respectful return:
“He was a fantastic servant to the club. Players sometimes need new challenges — and Trent chose to test himself in Spain. I think he’ll want to remind everyone why he’s so special.”
Life Without Trent: A Tactical Void
Since his departure, Liverpool have struggled to replicate his creative output. The absence of his visionary passing has been particularly felt by Mohamed Salah, who scored many of his goals from Alexander-Arnold’s assists. In fact, only Roberto Firmino has assisted Salah more often in a Liverpool shirt.
Under Slot, Liverpool’s revamped £450 million squad has lacked rhythm, enduring six defeats in seven matches before a crucial 2–0 win over Aston Villa halted the slide. The loss of Alexander-Arnold’s precise distribution and tactical flexibility has been one of the major reasons behind this inconsistency.
Warnock elaborates:
“Trent’s ability to shift inside and act almost like a midfielder gave Liverpool control and unpredictability. Without him, their right-hand side has looked vulnerable both defensively and in attack.”
Even Ibrahima Konaté, his former defensive partner, reportedly misses Trent’s composure under pressure and his link-up play in Liverpool’s hybrid system.
Filling the Gap: Bradley and Frimpong’s Struggles
Young full-back Conor Bradley has shown flashes of potential but has yet to build the chemistry that Alexander-Arnold shared with Salah. Meanwhile, new signing Jeremie Frimpong has struggled with recurring injuries since arriving from Bayer Leverkusen.
Warnock adds:
“Frimpong’s a great talent, but he’s not the same profile. At Leverkusen, he played as a wing-back. Replacing Trent isn’t just about ability — it’s about vision and timing. Liverpool lost one of the best playmakers in the league.”
A Creative Force Like De Bruyne
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s role at Liverpool transcended traditional full-back duties. His ability to dictate play and deliver pinpoint passes earned him comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne. Like the Belgian, Trent struck fear into defenders with his ability to break lines, switch play, and find gaps that few others could see.
“When he was on the pitch,” Warnock noted, “defenders dropped deeper because they knew he could unlock them at any moment. That threat alone changed how teams played against Liverpool.”
Without him, Slot’s side has lacked that same cutting edge — especially against deep, compact defenses. Some insiders suggest the club’s pursuit of Florian Wirtz this winter is an attempt to restore that lost creativity.
What Lies Ahead
As Alexander-Arnold prepares to step onto the Anfield pitch again, the story writes itself. He’s no longer the boy from West Derby — he’s a global superstar seeking redemption in front of the fans who once sang his name.
Whether he’s greeted with applause or jeers, the moment will be charged with emotion. And if there’s one thing Trent has always done under pressure, it’s deliver on the big stage.
Liverpool may have moved on, but Tuesday’s match might prove one thing beyond doubt — they still miss Trent Alexander-Arnold, 100%.
