Xabi Alonso names Real Madrid squad as duo set for emotional return to Anfield
For many fans, this was already a massive fixture — but with both Xabi Alonso and Trent Alexander-Arnold returning to Anfield, it’s set to feel even more special.
According to realmadrid.com, Real Madrid have confirmed their travelling squad for Tuesday night’s Champions League showdown, which features the former Liverpool midfielder and the defender who left Anfield for Madrid this summer.
Alonso’s squad trained at Valdebebas earlier today before flying to England, completing sessions focused on pressing, tactics, and finishing.
Antonio Rüdiger, David Alaba, and Dani Carvajal all miss out through injury, while youngster Mastantuono trained separately indoors.
The 22-man squad travelling to Merseyside includes stars such as Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Jr, Endrick, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, and is expected to arrive in Liverpool later today.
Real Madrid squad: Courtois, Lunin, González; Militão, Trent, Asencio, Carreras, Fran García, Mendy, Huijsen; Bellingham, Camavinga, Valverde, Tchouaméni, Güler, Ceballos; Vinícius Jr, Endrick, Mbappé, Rodrygo, Gonzalo, Brahim.
For Alonso, it’s an emotional homecoming to the stadium where he helped lead Liverpool to that unforgettable Istanbul triumph in 2005. For Trent, it’s a very different kind of return — stepping onto the pitch he once called home, now representing the team he used to dream of beating.
Ahead of the emotional night, Trent told Amazon Prime Video Sport, “No matter what, my feelings won’t change towards Liverpool,” a comment that only heightens the anticipation for his reception at Anfield.
As for Liverpool, there’s mixed news: Paul Joyce reports that Curtis Jones is back from injury, but Alexander Isak remains a doubt after missing Monday’s session at Kirkby.
Whatever unfolds on Tuesday, the night will be about far more than points or progression — it’ll be about two familiar faces returning to Anfield: one a legend, the other a symbol of how quickly football loyalties can change.
