Will Alexander-Arnold Show Liverpool What They’re Missing?

Will Alexander-Arnold Show What Liverpool Are Missing on His Return?

Trent Alexander-Arnold returns to Anfield on Tuesday night in Real Madrid colours, months after a highly emotional and controversial departure from his boyhood club.

The 27-year-old right-back, once the symbol of Liverpool’s identity and style, will find out if time has softened the hearts of Reds fans who once idolized him—and then turned their backs when he chose to leave.

A Divisive Exit

Alexander-Arnold’s decision to run down his Liverpool contract before eventually transferring to Real Madrid shocked and angered many fans. Initially leaving as a free agent, a reported £8.4 million agreement later saw him move early to play in the Club World Cup.

His substitution appearance against Arsenal in May drew boos from the Anfield crowd. But by the time of Liverpool’s final home game vs Crystal Palace, where the Premier League trophy was lifted, the crowd’s tone had softened.

Ex-manager Jurgen Klopp had publicly rebuked fans for their treatment of the local lad who had delivered everything from the Premier League and Champions League to the FA Cup. But did his words change anything?

What Reception Will He Get?

The expectation is mixed emotions: pride, betrayal, nostalgia, and regret. Many still admire the player who was affectionately called “the Scouser in our team,” but some can’t look past how he left.

“I don’t think he deserves a mixed reception,” said ex-Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock.

“He was an incredible servant to the club, but wanted to challenge himself. Hopefully he gets a great reception.”

Manager Arne Slot shared similar thoughts ahead of the Champions League clash:

“I have great memories of the player and the human being. How our fans react? I have no clue. He gets a warm welcome from me, that’s for sure.”

What Are Liverpool Missing Without Him?

Only Roberto Firmino (21) assisted more of Mohamed Salah’s Liverpool goals than Trent Alexander-Arnold (13)

Since Alexander-Arnold’s departure, Liverpool’s form has faltered. They snapped a worrying six-losses-in-seven stretch with a 2-0 win over Aston Villa last weekend, but cracks remain visible—especially down the right flank.

The Trent-Salah Connection

Alexander-Arnold and Mohamed Salah were once the most dangerous duo in the league. Last season, 147 line-breaking passes from Trent reached Salah—the most between any two Premier League players.

Salah’s drop in influence has been noticeable, with many attributing it to the missing creative engine behind him.

“They complemented each other,” said Warnock.

“Trent freed up space, pulled defenders out. Salah has missed that dynamic.”

Intelligence and Versatility

Alexander-Arnold was an unused substitute in Saturday’s La Liga win over Valencia

Alexander-Arnold was no ordinary right-back. He often tucked into midfield, contributing to Liverpool’s box midfield system. His technical comfort in possession offered defenders and midfielders a reliable outlet.

Without him:

• Conor Bradley is promising but lacks chemistry and consistency.

• Jeremie Frimpong, signed from Leverkusen for £29m, has struggled with injuries and positional adjustment.

Warnock added:

“He was like De Bruyne at right-back. That threat made teams drop deep, giving Liverpool space elsewhere. Now, they lack that fear factor.”

Final Word

When Alexander-Arnold steps onto the Anfield turf in white, it will be more than just a Champions League match—it will be a collision of memories, emotions, and footballing legacy.

Whether fans choose to cheer, boo, or sit in silence, Alexander-Arnold has the stage—and the skill—to show exactly what Liverpool have lost.