Liverpool vs Real Madrid: Slot promises warm welcome for Arnold

Liverpool manager Arne Slot says Trent Alexander-Arnold will receive a warm welcome when he returns to Anfield with Real Madrid in Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League group stage clash.

The 27-year-old England international, a boyhood Liverpool fan, left Anfield in June after his contract expired to sign for Spanish giants.

Alexander-Arnold played a key role in Liverpool’s golden era under Jürgen Klopp, winning two Premier League titles and the Champions League before Slot’s arrival.

Read Also: Alexander-Arnold: Liverpool Career in Numbers

“I have great memories of the player and of the human being,” Slot told reporters on Monday.

“He’s someone I enjoyed working with, both on and off the pitch. I can remember multiple great moments of him wearing the Liverpool shirt. He’ll get a warm welcome from me.”

Slot, who managed the defender during his first season at the club, added that he expects Liverpool supporters to show respect for a player who gave everything during his time on Merseyside.

“I’m sure our fans remember what he achieved here,” the Dutchman continued. “Let’s see if he’s on the pitch tomorrow and how the crowd reacts.”

Liverpool have struggled in Alexander-Arnold’s absence this season, losing six of their last eight matches, while the right-back’s move to Madrid has also had its challenges.

He has been plagued by a hamstring injury and is yet to cement a starting spot under Xabi Alonso, with Federico Valverde expected to start at right-back.

Real Madrid arrive in red-hot form, unbeaten in La Liga and sitting five points clear of Barcelona, with Kylian Mbappé leading the charge. The Spanish champions have also won all three of their group-stage games so far.

“They’ve always been a big force in this competition,” said Slot. “We know the challenge ahead, but we’re a very good team as well.”