Updated: 12 Aug 2026 17:01 BST |
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Jose Mourinho has already suggested to Real Madrid right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold that he has no more than a bit-part role to play in his plans at the Bernabeu.
Trent might have hoped a change of management in the summer might have improved his fortunes in the Spanish capital, where everything seems to have gone wrong since he made a €10 million switch from Liverpool at the beginning of June 2025 ahead of the Club World Cup.
But things are only going to get worse for the 29-year-old, whose career faces an alarming stagnation unless he can force a move away this summer – ideally back to Anfield.
Dumfries before Alexander-Arnold at Real Madrid
Mourinho’s thoughts on Trent have already been made clear. Having been given control of Real Madrid’s transfer policy, one of his first acts was to sign Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan in a €20 million deal.
If this was simply a warning shot for Trent, the Englishman’s fears have since been confirmed by Mourinho preferring Dumfries in each of Real Madrid’s two most recent friendly matches. Interestingly, the Dutchman played both right wing-back and right-back across these games, indicating the 30-year-old is favoured for both roles.
This is particularly remarkable given that Dumfries was coming off just five training sessions with the club, having played a prominent role for the Netherlands at the World Cup – a competition that Alexander-Arnold was not involved in with Thomas Tuchel’s England.
Coming out of the summer break fresh and one of the first players back to Real Madrid for pre-season, logic would have suggested that Trent would have been top of Mourinho’s hierarchy, but it seems this is not the case.
Analysis: Liverpool return is Trent’s best option
With Trent’s future at Real Madrid increasingly hanging in the balance, a return to Liverpool would clearly be the optimal move.
This is not simply a nostalgic dream but also the analysis of SciSports. Its Career Advice tool scores potential destinations based on a wide variety of factors, including development, playing time, style and formation.
Alexander-Arnold’s best option would be to return to Anfield, according to the analytics firm, which scores Liverpool as at an impressive 86. This is his best option ahead of Aston Villa (82), PSG (80), Manchester City and Arsenal (both 76).
Forgiveness is in Liverpool’s interests
Once a firm favourite of the Anfield crowd, the Scouse full-back was booed on his return to Liverpool on Champions League duty with Real Madrid last term. It was a clear indication on how far his star has fallen since leaving the club.
Reds fans felt betrayed by Alexander-Arnold’s consistent promises that he was not in talks with Real Madrid over leaving as a free agent at the end of his contract, only for him to pitch up at the Bernabeu speaking Spanish after months of transfer rumours.
It appears in the interests of both parties to bury the hatchet, though. Liverpool had hoped Jeremie Frimpong would be an effective replacement for the homegrown talent, yet he has proven a defensive liability, while Conor Bradley faces a long period out with injury.
Amid this crisis, Alexander-Arnold moving back to Liverpool is a deal that could suit both parties if the past can be forgiven.
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