Alexander-Arnold will ‘always love Liverpool’ as Real Madrid star prepares for Anfield return
The former Reds defender will look to have the last laugh against his former team
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 attended 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 have expressed frustration at his departure.
Speaking to Prime Video Sport ahead of the match, he admitted it would be a strange and emotional experience to return so soon.
“When the draw was announced, I think everyone knew it was going to happen, that it was meant for this upcoming match,” Alexander-Arnold said.
“They’re obviously a top team, so I knew at some point I would go back or play against Liverpool. It’s coming so soon. Mixed emotions. I think it will be a very, very difficult game but one I’m excited about.”
The England international confirmed he would not celebrate if he scored against his former team and said he fully respects how Liverpool fans choose to greet him.
“However I am received, that’s the fans’ decision,” he said. “I will always love the club, I will always be a fan of the club. I will always be grateful for the opportunities and the things we achieved together, they will live with me forever.
“No matter what, my feelings towards Liverpool will not change. I have memories there that will last me a lifetime and, no matter how I am received, that will not change.”
Alexander-Arnold joined Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer, joining his England teammate Jude Bellingham. The midfielder, who has flourished since arriving in Spain, played a key role in convincing him to join us.
“There’s been a lot of speculation about ‘Agent Jude,'” Alexander-Arnold said. “This was even more the case during his first season [at Real]we found ourselves in camps in England and everyone wanted to know what it was like behind the scenes.
“He said it was incredible and he had never seen anything like it. The desire of the whole club to win and the expectation of winning.
“He talked so much about the club, and I had made up my mind at the end of the day, I needed a change for myself. I wanted a new challenge on and off the pitch.”
