Alexander-Arnold could make history in the match against Liverpool

The match between Real Madrid and Liverpool at Anfield will be more remarkable than ever with Trent Alexander-Arnold - formerly a symbol of The Kops - on the verge of achieving a unique record in the history of English football.

The 27-year-old defender could become the second English player in 47 years to face Liverpool at the Champions League after previously playing for this club in European competitions. The only player who has done this before is Larry Lloyd - the former Nottingham Forest center-back, who met Liverpool again in the 1978/79 European Cup. At that time, Lloyd and Forest defeated The Reds 2-0 in the first round, starting their historic European championship journey under coach Brian Clough.

Alexander-Arnold now has the chance to follow that record as he travels with Real Madrid to Anfield on Tuesday. This will also be his first return to his old home since leaving Liverpool after the 2024/25 season - a decision that still sparks intense controversy among Merseyside fans.

After 354 appearances for Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold has won a full set of major titles including 2 Premier League titles, the Champions League, FA Cup, EFL Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup. Despite leaving a remarkable legacy, he faced backlash from some supporters for refusing to renew his contract and moving to Real Madrid for only £10 million - a fee considered symbolic for his participation in the FIFA Club World Cup.

Despite mixed reactions, Alexander-Arnold is still regarded as one of the most talented right-backs Liverpool has ever produced. He quickly adapted to Real Madrid’s colors and has been highly praised by coach Xabi Alonso for his long passing and game tempo control - qualities that fit perfectly with Los Blancos’ possession-based philosophy.

However, his participation in the upcoming match remains uncertain. Alexander-Arnold suffered a hamstring injury during the match against Marseille on September 16 and has only recently been included in the squad for the games against Barcelona and Valencia, though he hasn’t played yet. With Dani Carvajal still injured, coach Alonso may carefully consider before risking Alexander-Arnold as a starter at Anfield, likely opting to bring him on as a substitute if necessary.

Regardless, the reunion between Trent Alexander-Arnold and Liverpool remains one of the most anticipated moments of this Champions League group stage. If he plays, he will not only complete a “full circle” journey in his career but also enter history with a 47-year-old record unbroken - becoming one of the rare English players to face the club that made his name.

If that happens, the reunion at Anfield will be more than just a match; it will be the next chapter in the unique story between Trent Alexander-Arnold and Liverpool - where he was once a legend and now an opponent.

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