Trent Alexander-Arnold makes a dramatic return to Anfield tonight as Real Madrid face Liverpool in the Champions League, though questions remain over how much he\u2019ll feature in the match.<\/p>\n
The 27-year-old will come up against his former club for the first time since his controversial exit last season, when he allowed his contract to run down and departed Merseyside for a modest fee. His return could spark a tense atmosphere, with many Reds fans still feeling betrayed by how he left. Yet, in a show of respect, Alexander-Arnold took a moment to pay tribute to Diogo Jota at Liverpool\u2019s area of remembrance outside the stadium.<\/p>\n
Will Alexander-Arnold start against Liverpool?<\/p>\n
Fans will be watching closely when the line-ups drop about 75 minutes before kick-off to see whether the right-back is included in Real Madrid\u2019s starting XI. According to Spanish outlet Marca, however, he isn\u2019t expected to start, with Federico Valverde tipped to fill the right-back position instead. The Uruguayan, naturally a midfielder, has often been used in defence this season and could retain his spot for this crucial tie.<\/p>\n
Marca\u2019s predicted Real Madrid XI: Courtois; Valverde, Militao, Huijsen, Carreras; Tchouameni, Camavinga; Guler, Bellingham, Vinicius Jr; Mbapp\u00e9.<\/p>\n
Liverpool know Alexander-Arnold all too well<\/p>\n
The Englishman has not featured since suffering a hamstring injury in Madrid\u2019s group-stage opener against Marseille in September, although he\u2019s recently returned to full fitness and made the last two matchday squads.<\/p>\n
While Alexander-Arnold will be eager to make an impression on his return to Anfield, Liverpool are unlikely to be intimidated by the prospect of facing their former vice-captain. Cody Gakpo, having trained and played alongside him for over two years, will be familiar with both his strengths and defensive vulnerabilities.<\/p>\n
Even so, Arne Slot will urge his side not to be distracted by the narrative surrounding their ex-teammate. With Kylian Mbapp\u00e9 in explosive form\u2014scoring 18 goals already this season\u2014Real Madrid possess multiple threats capable of punishing any lapse in concentration.<\/p>\n
Regardless of who lines up for Los Blancos, Liverpool will need a top-class performance to recreate the success of their 2-0 victory when the teams last met a year ago.<\/p>\n
e from a fan page or sports blog)?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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