Alexander-Arnold starts just 5 of 16 Madrid games as Liverpool return gains traction

Trent Alexander-Arnold has started only five of 16 possible games for Real Madrid this season, a statistic that has fueled speculation about a return to Liverpool. The 28-year-old defender joined the Spanish club two years ago for a fee of 12 million euros, a transfer that was intended to secure his long-term future in Madrid. Instead, his playing time has stalled under new management.

Since arriving in Spain, Alexander-Arnold has started 18 of 50 possible LaLiga matches. Injuries and managerial changes at the Bernabeu have disrupted his role. Head coach Jose Mourinho, who took charge in July, has placed Federico Valverde and Denzel Dumfries ahead of him in the right-back hierarchy. Alexander-Arnold has made just one appearance in the Champions League this season.

Liverpool has struggled to replace the creative threat that Alexander-Arnold provided at Anfield. Under manager Andoni Iraola, the team has generated only 17 big chances in the Premier League this season. Only two other teams, Hull City and Coventry City, have created fewer. Both opponents were newly promoted to the top flight. Alexander-Arnold holds the record for the most assists by a defender in Premier League history.

The right-back position at Liverpool has faced its own set of problems. Conor Bradley has been sidelined with a knee injury since January. Jeremie Frimpong has dealt with ongoing fitness issues. Ronald Araujo has performed well in the role, but his background as a central defender limits his ability to initiate attacks from the back line. A return for Alexander-Arnold would address a specific tactical gap in the current squad.

Financial and logistical hurdles remain for a potential transfer. Liverpool originally received a modest fee for the player, meaning both clubs would need to negotiate a new deal. His injury history also presents a risk, as he has missed considerable game time in recent years. Additionally, his status as a former vice-captain could affect the current team dynamic.

Former Liverpool players have offered differing opinions on a reunion. Jamie Carragher said he would welcome Alexander-Arnold back, pointing to the team's lack of creativity. Steven Gerrard expressed uncertainty about whether the move would be right for the current group and supporters. The fanbase was divided when Alexander-Arnold first left, with some booing him during his final appearances.

Alexander-Arnold faces personal considerations as well. Returning to Merseyside too soon could be viewed as an admission that his move to Spain failed. He has built a strong personal brand in Spain and may prefer to establish success there before considering a move. The 2028 European Championship approaches, adding pressure to secure regular starting minutes.

Real Madrid currently sits three points behind the leader in LaLiga. Liverpool is fourth in the Premier League, nine points behind the top team. Alexander-Arnold is under contract until 2031, giving him time to prove his worth in Spain if he chooses to stay. The decision hinges on whether he can reassert himself in Mourinho's system or if the pull of his old club becomes too strong.