Trent Alexander-Arnold is being tipped to return to Liverpool as his struggles at Real Madrid continue. The right-back has slipped to third-choice in the pecking order and was an unused substitute in Real's El Clasico victory at Barcelona on Sunday.
Liverpool have failed to adequately replace Alexander-Arnold following his departure at the end of the 2024/25 title-winning season. Ronald Araujo has impressed in the position recently, but he is primarily a central defender and isn't a long-term solution. Jeremie Frimpong, currently out injured, has had a frustrating time at Anfield so far, with midfielders often being preferred at right-back even when he's fit.
Carragher Backs Return
Jamie Carragher is among those who would welcome him back, saying recently: "We do have a problem in terms of full-backs passing. We've definitely missed his creativity."
While many Liverpool fans weren't happy with Alexander-Arnold's decision to quit the Reds and made their feelings loud and clear, the relationship isn't irreparable. He wouldn't be the first player to leave Liverpool before returning down the line.
Five Notable Returns
Ian Rush (First spell: 1980-1987, Second spell: 1988-1996) - Liverpool's all-time record goalscorer left for Juventus in 1987 for a British record fee. After a single season in Italy, where he didn't settle, Rush returned to Anfield and went on to win another First Division title and two more FA Cups.
Robbie Fowler (First spell: 1993-2001, Second spell: 2006-2007) - Still known affectionately as 'God' by the Anfield faithful, Fowler established himself as one of the Premier League's most lethal finishers before being sold to Leeds. Rafa Benitez brought him back on a free transfer in January 2006, allowing the academy graduate a brief second stint in front of the Kop.
Craig Bellamy (First spell: 2006-2007, Second spell: 2011-2012) - The combative Welsh forward spent a single season under Benitez, which included a run to the 2007 Champions League final, before leaving for West Ham. He returned four years later under Kenny Dalglish and was part of the team that won the League Cup in 2012.
Steve Staunton (First spell: 1986-1991, Second spell: 1998-2000) - The reliable Republic of Ireland defender won the First Division title and the FA Cup during his first stint. He left for Aston Villa in 1991 before returning on a free transfer seven years later to provide experienced cover at the back.
Rickie Lambert (First spell: 1992-1997, Second spell: 2014-2015) - Few will recall Lambert's first stint at the club as he was released at the age of 15. The boyhood Red worked his way up from the lower leagues to become an England international at Southampton. He returned to Liverpool in 2014 for £4m to finally fulfil his dream of playing for the first team.
