Alexander-Arnold admits it: “Agent Jude” was real

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s return to Anfield will be more than a match, it will be an emotional, symbolic and sporting storm. Days before facing Liverpool in the Champions League, the new Real Madrid star finally said it: Jude Bellingham directly influenced his decision to move to Spain.

In an interview, the England international admitted that conversations with his national teammate pushed him toward the Santiago Bernabéu. “We would constantly talk about what life was like there… he described it as something unique,” he revealed. According to Alexander-Arnold, Bellingham praised the club’s winning culture, the locker-room environment and the relentless pursuit of trophies: “I had never seen anything like it,” he said.

Still, Alexander-Arnold insists it was also a personal decision, a need for change, a new challenge and a stage that would push him out of his comfort zone. For him, Madrid meant evolution… even if the price was leaving home.

Anfield awaits… and not with cheers

This story won’t be gentle. Alexander-Arnold returns to the place that shaped him, but this time as the opponent. Even during his farewell, there were boos and tension, and many supporters still see his decision as a football “betrayal.”

He knows what awaits: “Whatever the reaction is, I will always love the club,” he said. For some fans, those words ring true; for others, they fall short. Anfield — a temple that embraces its heroes but punishes goodbyes will be judge and jury on a night full of electricity.

Real Madrid lands with intent, and Xabi Alonso sets the tone

Adding to the drama, Xabi Alonso, another Liverpool legend, chose not to train in Merseyside. Madrid stayed in Valdebebas for absolute focus.
“We want privacy and calm to prepare for the match,” he stated.

For Alonso Madrid didn’t travel to England for nostalgia, only business.

Nostalgia, ambition and a Champions League emotional storm

Alexander-Arnold doesn’t hide his love for Liverpool, but he also made it clear: his new mission is in white and gold. His legacy at Anfield is already written, now he wants a new chapter in Madrid.

This matchup will define more than points, it will define the narrative: Is he the prodigal son chasing glory? Or the former hero facing judgment at the temple that crowned him?

One thing is certain: when the Champions League anthem hits, Anfield’s heart and Alexander-Arnold's will beat at once… but for different colors.