Liverpool urged to put emotion aside and explore a shock Trent Alexander-Arnold return
Liverpool have been urged to set residual bitterness aside and seriously consider bringing Trent Alexander-Arnold back to Anfield after just one season at Real Madrid.
The idea remains highly controversial given the manner of his departure and the hostile reaction from sections of the support. Yet the pure footballing case is becoming harder to dismiss.
Conor Bradley is still months away from returning after a serious knee injury. Jeremie Frimpong has often looked more comfortable in advanced positions than as a pure right-back. Liverpool have added Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Muñoz this window, but neither directly addresses the shortage of a proven creator from that flank. The squad has gained defensive potential and attacking depth; it still lacks Alexander-Arnold’s range of passing and control from right-back.
Pundit makes the case for a reunion
Speaking on talkSPORT’s Transfer Insiders, Angelina Kelly argued that Liverpool should investigate whether a return is possible rather than allowing resentment to dictate the decision.
“I know what it’s like for a player to, in your opinion, betray the club – especially one of your own, especially being a Liverpudlian. I get it,” Kelly said.
“When Real Madrid come calling, it is hard to say no – we have to be honest with that – and he’s made the move and it hasn’t really worked out. And you look at Liverpool and you think do they need a new right-back? I mean, Frimpong didn’t look great last season – I think he’s probably better playing further forward – Bradley injured… I think maybe they should cut their losses and just explore the Trent situation.”
Alexander-Arnold started only 14 league matches in a difficult first campaign in Spain. Real Madrid’s subsequent signing of Denzel Dumfries has further reduced his security and could open the door to fewer minutes or a summer exit.
Why the footballing argument is strong
Bradley remains “way off” a return according to the club’s official channels, making right-back one of Andoni Iraola’s clearest concerns. Alexander-Arnold already understands the club, the Premier League and the demands of Anfield, so adaptation would be minimal. His ability to unlock deep-lying defences is precisely the quality Liverpool currently lack from that position.
The obstacles are emotional and financial. Madrid would demand a meaningful fee, and many supporters still feel let down by how he left. Dumfries’ arrival may soften Madrid’s negotiating stance, though interest from elsewhere could quickly complicate any deal.
Liverpool’s sensible approach is to explore the conditions quietly, without promises. A reasonably priced reunion would strengthen the team immediately – but only if Alexander-Arnold is genuinely ready to rebuild the trust that was broken.
