2 weeks ago
57
Xabi Alonso does not believe Trent Alexander-Arnold will recover from injury in time for Real Madrid to feature in the team's Champions League clash against Juventus on Wednesday - but it's hoped he will play against Liverpool.
The former Reds vice-captain has returned to training ahead of the fixture, but he's been absent from the team's previous six matches following a hamstring problem. Liverpool fans are keen to know whether he'll make his return to Merseyside on November 4, when Madrid takes on Arne Slot's side at Anfield.
Speaking at Tuesday's pre-match press conference, Alonso confirmed that he would provide the media with an update on Saturday. That falls on the day prior to Madrid's El Clasico encounter with Barcelona.
The game between Liverpool and Madrid is being touted as Alexander-Arnold's homecoming to his boyhood club.
The injury picked up during their encounter with Marseille in mid-September cast doubt over his participation, though the England international appears likely to be available for selection.
"We're going to take it day by day," Alonso said. "Trent and Carvajal have done some work. Looking ahead to tomorrow, I don't think they'll be ready."
Alexander-Arnold missing out against Juventus means he has a maximum of two fixtures to make his comeback before Madrid travels to Liverpool.
The first opportunity comes on Sunday against Barcelona, with the second arriving a week on Saturday when Madrid hosts Valencia.
He has featured in just five outings for Madrid, with three lasting fewer than 10 minutes.
The right-back was selected from the start in only half of his new side's opening four league encounters of the campaign, with Carvajal getting the nod in the remaining two.
Despite only making five substitute appearances in the Premier League last season, Alexander-Arnold participated in 49 matches across all competitions, even with ankle and hamstring injuries during his final campaign at Anfield.
Alexander-Arnold played more than 350 games for Liverpool and won several trophies, including two Premier League titles and the Champions League.
But his decision to run down his Liverpool contract and force a move to Madrid angered fans of his hometown club.
If he plays, Alexander-Arnold is expected to receive a frosty reception at Anfield on November 4.
English (US) ·