The 27-year-old right-back, who completed a high-profile free transfer to Real Madrid in the summer of 2025 after letting his Anfield contract expire, has already made one bittersweet trip back to his boyhood club. In November 2025, Alexander-Arnold came off the bench in the Champions League group stage clash at Anfield, where Liverpool secured a narrow 1-0 victory over the Spanish giants. The reception from the Kop was predictably mixed—cheers for his legacy mingled with boos reflecting the raw feelings over his departure—but the defender insisted his love for the club remains unchanged.
Now, with Real Madrid having progressed to the Champions League last-16 following their aggregate win over Benfica earlier this week, speculation is mounting over a possible rematch. Liverpool, who finished third in the league phase, will face either Atletico Madrid or Galatasaray in the round of 16, with first legs on March 10/11 and returns at Anfield on March 17/18. Should both Liverpool and Real Madrid advance deep into the competition—potentially meeting in the quarter-finals, semi-finals, or beyond—Alexander-Arnold could line up against his former teammates once more at the iconic stadium.
In recent comments following Real Madrid’s qualification, Alexander-Arnold made his feelings crystal clear when addressing the prospect of further challenges, including a return to Merseyside. “We’re more than ready to face whatever comes next,” he told TNT Sports. “There’s an expectation and demand at this club, and no reason why we can’t go all the way. It wasn’t about sending a message—it was about winning and letting our football do the talking.” While not directly naming Liverpool, his words have been interpreted by fans and pundits as a nod to the emotional weight of any Anfield reunion, echoing his earlier statements from November where he declared: “No matter what, my feelings won’t change towards Liverpool. I’ve got memories there that will last me a lifetime. I’ll always love the club, always be a fan, and be thankful for everything we achieved together.”
The prospect has ignited fervent reactions across social media and fan forums. Liverpool supporters are torn between pride in their homegrown legend’s success and lingering hurt from his exit, with many sharing clips of his iconic assists and moments like the 2019 Champions League semi-final winner against Barcelona. “Trent’s heart is still red—Anfield will always welcome him home, even if it’s complicated,” one popular post read. Real Madrid fans, meanwhile, highlight his professionalism and contributions despite a challenging start in Spain marked by injury setbacks and adaptation struggles. Others speculate on whether a deeper run could spark talk of a sensational future return, though reports suggest Madrid view him as part of their long-term plans, albeit with some adjustment needed.
Alexander-Arnold’s journey since leaving has been eventful. After a dream move to the Bernabéu—facilitated by a £10m compensation fee to Liverpool for early release—he’s faced criticism, a quadriceps injury sidelining him for periods, and the pressure of replacing club icons in a star-studded squad. Yet his pedigree as one of the Premier League’s most creative defenders remains undeniable, and pundits believe a high-stakes Anfield return could reignite his best form.
Liverpool, under Arne Slot, continue to thrive domestically and in Europe, sitting strongly in the Premier League title race while eyeing another deep Champions League run. The draw for the last-16, set for Friday, February 27, will clarify paths, but the narrative of an Alexander-Arnold homecoming looms large regardless. Whether it materializes in March or later, the reunion promises drama, emotion, and perhaps a few tears from the Kop.
As kickoff dates approach and the football world watches, one thing is evident: Trent Alexander-Arnold’s honest words have only heightened the anticipation. Anfield’s roar awaits—love, rivalry, and history colliding once more.
