Alexander-Arnold will ‘always love Liverpool’ as Real Madrid star prepares for Anfield return
The ex-Reds defender will be looking to have the last laugh against his former side
Trent Alexander-Arnold says he will “always love Liverpool” regardless of the reception he receives when he returns to Anfield with Real Madrid on Tuesday night.
The 27-year-old right-back is expected to feature for Madrid in their Champions League clash after recovering from a hamstring injury, marking an emotional reunion with the club where he came through the academy and spent more than a decade.
Alexander-Arnold’s summer move to the Spanish giants came after a long transfer saga, and some Liverpool fans expressed frustration at his departure.
Speaking to Prime Video Sport ahead of the match, he admitted it will be a strange and emotional experience returning so soon.
“When the draw was announced, I think everyone kind of knew it was going to happen, it was destined for that fixture to come,” Alexander-Arnold said.
“Obviously they’re a top team so I knew at some point I’d end up going back there or playing against Liverpool. It’s happening so soon. Mixed emotions. I think it’ll be a very, very difficult game but one that I’m excited for.”
The England international confirmed he will not celebrate if he scores against his former side and said he fully respects however Liverpool fans choose to greet him.
“Whatever way I’m received is the decision of the fans,” he said. “I’ll always love the club, I’ll always be a fan of 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 towards Liverpool. I’ve got memories there that will last me a lifetime and, no matter how I’m received, that won’t change.”
Alexander-Arnold joined Real Madrid on a free transfer in the summer, linking up with England team-mate Jude Bellingham. The midfielder, who has thrived since moving to Spain, played a key role in convincing him to join.
“There was a lot of speculation, the ‘agent Jude’ stuff,” Alexander-Arnold said. “It was more so in his first season [at Real], we’d meet up at England camps and everyone would want to know what it was like behind the scenes.
“He said it was incredible, and he’d never seen anything like it. The drive from the whole club, to win and the expectation to win.
“He talked so highly of the club, and I’d made my mind up at the end of the day, I needed a change for me. I wanted a new challenge on and off the pitch.”