The stage is set for a dramatic Champions League reunion that could see Trent Alexander-Arnold return to Anfield in RB Leipzig colours. The German club's qualification for the group stages has created the tantalising possibility of the Liverpool academy product facing his boyhood club.
Alexander-Arnold completed his surprising £65m move to Leipzig earlier this summer, ending his lifelong association with the Merseyside club. The 26-year-old right-back made over 300 appearances for Liverpool, winning numerous trophies including the Premier League and Champions League.
Group Stage Drama Beckons
The Champions League group stage draw, scheduled for Thursday in Monaco, could pair Leipzig with Liverpool in what would undoubtedly be one of the most emotionally charged fixtures of the tournament. UEFA's draw mechanics mean the two clubs could be drawn together despite both being seeded in Pot 2.
Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann emphasised the significance of such a draw, noting: "It would be a special occasion for Trent and for the Liverpool fans. There would be mixed emotions without doubt, but these are the fixtures that make European football so compelling."
Anfield Return Would Be Emotional
Should the draw bring Alexander-Arnold back to Anfield, the reception from the Kop would be closely watched. The local lad turned global superstar left through a release clause rather than any acrimony, which suggests he would receive a warm welcome from the home supporters.
However, once the whistle blows, the competitive nature of Champions League football would take over. Alexander-Arnold's knowledge of Liverpool's tactics and players could give Leipzig a unique advantage, while Liverpool would be equally motivated to show their former star what he's missing.
The football world now awaits Thursday's draw with added anticipation, as one of the summer's biggest transfers could lead to one of the season's most dramatic storylines.
