Liverpool Urged to Pursue Trent Alexander-Arnold Return After Difficult Spell at Real Madrid
Liverpool might be on the verge of pulling off a stunning transfer by bringing back Trent Alexander-Arnold, just a year after his move to Real Madrid. The England defender has found life in Spain challenging, leading to suggestions that a return to Anfield could benefit both him and his former club.
Andy Townsend Backs Shock Reunion
Andy Townsend thinks Liverpool should take advantage of the uncertainty around Alexander-Arnold's role at Madrid. The 27-year-old moved there on a free transfer last summer but has struggled to settle in. Townsend told talkSPORT that Alexander-Arnold would definitely improve Liverpool’s squad, especially as they lack a quality right-back like him under manager Andoni Iraola.
"If he came back to Liverpool, would he improve them? One hundred per cent, yes. I haven’t really got anyone like [Jeremie] Frimpong as a right back. Full backs are so important these days for attacking play. From what I've seen of him so far at Madrid, I haven't really seen that final delivery, which Trent can do with ease. He would absolutely improve Liverpool," said Townsend.
He added that some Liverpool fans might find the idea hard to accept, but from a purely footballing perspective, Alexander-Arnold’s return would be valuable.
Mourinho’s Tactics and Competition Create Trouble
Alexander-Arnold’s position at Madrid has become complicated since Jose Mourinho took charge. The coach appears to prefer a more disciplined defensive approach, favoring Denzel Dumfries as his starting right-back. This shift sidelines Alexander-Arnold, whose strength lies in creative, attacking play.
Townsend noted that Madrid already has several players covering that area, including Federico Valverde, making Alexander-Arnold less essential to Mourinho’s plans.
"Real Madrid signed Denzel Dumfries from Inter, who fits Mourinho's profile better. They've got other options like Valverde and plenty of cover on the right side. For Trent, at this stage of pre-season, he needs to feel he has a real chance to start regularly," Townsend explained.
A Tough First Year in La Liga
Alexander-Arnold’s stats from his debut season at Madrid tell a tough story. Injuries and constant coaching changes limited him to just 14 league starts, preventing him from finding form. Townsend believes a loan move back to Liverpool could be the right way for Alexander-Arnold to regain confidence and feel valued again.
"That first season must have been a big disappointment for him. Secretly, he probably felt hurt it never really took off. If Liverpool could bring him back on loan for a season, even for a fee of £5 million or £10 million, it would be worth it. He's top-quality," Townsend said.
Alexander-Arnold’s View Under Mourinho
Despite all the speculation, Alexander-Arnold has been committed to working hard in Spain. Early in the summer, he praised Mourinho’s intensity and high standards.
"With Mourinho? Very good, very good. I've always admired him, played against him before, and it's a pleasure to work with him. His intensity and expectations are very high. I'm eager to learn and improve under him. I’m sure he'll teach us a lot and help us win trophies this year," Alexander-Arnold commented.
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