Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to make his emotional return to Anfield on Tuesday night as Real Madrid face Liverpool in the Champions League quarter-final first leg — and former Reds defender Stephen Warnock hopes supporters will show their appreciation for a homegrown legend.
The England international left Liverpool last summer to join the Spanish giants after his contract expired, with Real Madrid paying a £10 million compensation fee to secure his early release ahead of their Club World Cup campaign.
“I HOPE HE GETS A GOOD RECEPTION”
Speaking to The Mirror via Esports Bets, Warnock said he expects a mixed reaction from the Anfield crowd but hopes fans focus on Alexander-Arnold’s remarkable contribution rather than his departure.
“A mixed one, I think. There are Liverpool fans who appreciate what he did for the club and understand that he wanted a new challenge,” Warnock explained.
“There were others asking, ‘why have you left? It’s the best club in the world.’ I get that — but now people are realising the quality they’ve lost and appreciating it more.”
Warnock, who made 67 appearances for Liverpool, added that Alexander-Arnold’s absence has been deeply felt this season.
“Liverpool and City will miss Trent Alexander-Arnold and Kevin De Bruyne more than anything.
His delivery from set-pieces, whether from midfield or right-back, changed games — it allowed Liverpool to run behind and forced teams to drop off.
I hope people are realising just how good he was because he was a special player, and a homegrown one at that.”
SLOT PROMISES WARM RECEPTION
Liverpool boss Arne Slot also confirmed that Alexander-Arnold will receive a respectful welcome from the coaching staff — regardless of fan sentiment.
“I can only tell you what kind of reception he gets from me,” Slot said.
“I have great memories of the player and the human being. He was my vice-captain last season and working with him was a pleasure.
He’ll get a warm welcome from me — that’s for sure.”
Slot added that he’s unsure whether the 27-year-old will feature on Tuesday, but emphasised the importance of remembering Alexander-Arnold’s legacy.
A HOMECOMING WITH MIXED EMOTIONS
Alexander-Arnold came through Liverpool’s academy and played a key role in the club’s Premier League and Champions League triumphs under Jürgen Klopp.
While his decision to join Real Madrid split opinion among fans, Tuesday’s clash offers a chance for both sides to reflect on an extraordinary chapter — and perhaps, for Anfield, to applaud one of its finest modern graduates.