Alexander-Arnold Faces Potential Anfield Absence with Injury
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s anticipated return to Liverpool with Real Madrid is now in doubt due to a recent injury.the right-back sustained an injury during Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Marseille on Tuesday, prompting fears of a six to eight-week absence.
Alexander-Arnold has struggled to establish himself in the Madrid lineup as his move from Liverpool, a transition intricate by adapting to a new club, country, and culture. Both Xabi Alonso, the Madrid coach, and figures within the club have advocated for patience as he adjusts, with Alonso consistently starting him in home matches and utilizing captain dani Carvajal in away games.
However, Madrid now faces a challenge at right-back following Carvajal’s sending-off against Marseille for a headbutt, potentially resulting in a three-match suspension.alonso is considering options to fill the void. While Federico Valverde filled in at right-back under Carlo Ancelotti last season, the midfielder has expressed a preference for playing in his established midfield role, stating he has “earned his place” there.
Other potential solutions include Raul Asencio, who replaced Carvajal after the red card but struggled in the position last season, and Jesus Fortea, an 18-year-old currently playing for Real Madrid Castilla, the club’s reserve team. Fortea, signed from Atletico Madrid’s academy in 2022 – a move that broke a previous ‘non-aggression pact’ between the clubs – has seen his situation improve under coach Alvaro Arbeloa, with contract renewal talks initiated in May.
Liverpool Outlook:
According to The Athletic’s Liverpool Correspondent Gregg Evans, Alexander-Arnold’s potential absence from the Champions League clash at Anfield would be a “bitter blow.” He notes the player was looking forward to returning to his former club and showcasing his talent. However, Evans points out that Liverpool’s right-back position has been effectively filled by others this season, with Dominik Szoboszlai, Jeremie Frimpong, and Conor Bradley all demonstrating quality in the role, leading to Alexander-arnold’s diminished spotlight. Missing the match would be notably difficult given he also missed last year’s fixture while still at Liverpool.
