Trent Alexander-Arnold could be welcomed back to Liverpool if he were to return to Anfield, according to former Reds striker Stan Collymore. The ex-England international believes that the fickleness of football fans would see the defender eventually win supporters over.
Struggles at Real Madrid
Alexander-Arnold joined Real Madrid at the end of the 2024/25 season, but confirmed he would leave Merseyside in controversial circumstances as he let his contract run down. The full-back drew criticism for the decision, with hostile home atmospheres until supporters displayed their gratitude on his final outing.
Having won everything with the club in 354 appearances, many remain frustrated with the manner of his departure. Upon his return to Anfield with Real Madrid, Alexander-Arnold received a hostile reception once again.
Battle for a Place Under Mourinho
After a difficult first season in the Spanish capital, this term has also been a struggle under Jose Mourinho. The defender has been in and out of Real Madrid's side, leading to scrutiny over his future as he battles with Denzel Dumfries for a place in Mourinho's plans.
The Los Blancos boss has even opted to use Federico Valverde ahead of both players, and Alexander-Arnold has completed 90 minutes in La Liga just once this season. Should he be unable to win over the Portuguese manager, a transfer could await the England international, who is under contract until 2031.
Collymore's Verdict on a Possible Return
Collymore reckons that Liverpool could provide an option. "I think Liverpool would welcome Trent back because we're all fickle as football fans," he told betarades.gr.
"If he says I made a bit of a mistake, I went because I thought I'd won everything but I love this city, I love the club, and I've just put money into a kiddies' venture or a young teenager's venture back in the city of Liverpool."
"If he says I was a bit naive in my thinking that when you're at Liverpool, Real Madrid is a step better, and if he says all the right things, and he comes in and he pings a ball 40-50 yards to somebody who puts it in the box for an Isak to score, he'll be welcomed back because football fans are very, very forgiving."
Bayern Munich Alternative
Collymore believes Alexander-Arnold could have an alternative option to Liverpool should he arrive at the decision to leave the Bernabeu. The 28-year-old could follow in Harry Kane's footsteps.
"He needs people to look at the end of the season and say, if he's not getting into Real Madrid's first team, then he's going to have an emotional return back to Liverpool, which a lot of people will be saying," Collymore continued.
"You could also quite easily see him going the Harry Kane route and going somewhere like Bayern, who will be having him all day long. He'll be going down the right hand side, pinging balls to Olise, Diaz and Harry Kane left, right and centre."
Reports have suggested that Liverpool's Premier League rivals Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City have also had their interest piqued.
