Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has returned to training, giving manager Arne Slot a major boost ahead of the highly anticipated Champions League clash against Real Madrid at Anfield.
Alexander-Arnold suffered an injury during the match against Aston Villa and has been sidelined since, missing both club and international matches.
His return to training offers Slot a much-needed option at full-back, especially considering the upcoming fixtures against Real Madrid and Manchester City.
However, it remains unclear whether Alexander-Arnold will be fit enough to start against the Spanish giants.
In his absence, young defender Conor Bradley stepped up admirably, playing a key role in the recent 3-2 win over Southampton.
While there’s positive news about Alexander-Arnold, concerns remain regarding Alisson Becker, who continues his rehabilitation for a hamstring injury.
Liverpool’s last win against Real Madrid came in 2009, a record that captain Virgil van Dijk is desperate to change.
Real Madrid themselves will be without several key players due to injury, including Vinicius Jr. and Aurelien Tchouameni, presenting a potentially golden opportunity for the Reds.
“Honestly, I don’t need any extra motivation,” Van Dijk said, according to the ECHO. “It’s the Champions League, a massive game, and we want to win.”
Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois acknowledged the changes under new manager Arne Slot.
“Liverpool is a very dynamic, offensive team under Slot,” Courtois said in an interview with Real Madrid TV. “They play with a lot of pressure, quick attacks, and have a lot of speed upfront. Playing at Anfield will definitely be an advantage for them.”
