Spanish outlet drops major pre-match clue over Alexander-Arnold’s chances of starting against Liverpool

Real Madrid face Liverpool in the Champions League tonight, though it’s still uncertain how big a role Trent Alexander-Arnold will play in the game.

This match marks the 27-year-old’s first encounter with his former club since his controversial exit from Anfield last season, when he allowed his contract to expire and left his boyhood team for a relatively small fee.

The right-back is likely to face a frosty reception from Liverpool fans at Anfield, following the drama surrounding his departure earlier this year. However, he did make a touching gesture by leaving a heartfelt tribute to Diogo Jota at the stadium’s memorial area.

Will Alexander-Arnold start at Anfield tonight?
When the official line-ups are released 75 minutes before kick-off, all eyes will be on Real Madrid’s team sheet to see whether Alexander-Arnold features.

According to Marca, the Englishman is not expected to start, with Federico Valverde tipped to play at right-back instead. The Uruguayan, typically a midfielder, has often filled in on the right side of defence this season.

Marca’s predicted Real Madrid XI: Courtois; Valverde, Militao, Huijsen, Carreras; Tchouameni, Camavinga; Guler, Bellingham, Vinicius Jr; Mbappe.

Liverpool are well aware of Alexander-Arnold’s game
The former Reds vice-captain hasn’t played since suffering a hamstring injury in Madrid’s Champions League opener against Marseille in September, though he’s been back in their last two matchday squads (via Transfermarkt).

He’ll be eager to start on his return to Anfield, but Liverpool will have little to fear if he does. Cody Gakpo, who spent two-and-a-half seasons alongside him, knows exactly how to take advantage of his defensive vulnerabilities.

While Alexander-Arnold will draw much of the media attention, Arne Slot will remind his players to stay focused on the entire Madrid side — particularly Kylian Mbappe, who has already scored 18 goals this season.

Regardless of who Madrid start, Liverpool will need to be at their best to replicate last year’s 2-0 victory over the Spanish giants.