Van Dijk Unveils Liverpool's Master Plan to Bring Back Trent Alexander-Arnold
Virgil van Dijk downplayed the sentimental aspect of Trent Alexander-Arnold's return to Anfield, emphasizing instead that Liverpool "must make things extremely challenging" for their former colleague and his Real Madrid teammates.
Alexander-Arnold's comeback to Merseyside has overshadowed the preparation for Tuesday evening's significant Champions League encounter between two European powerhouses. The Liverpool youth product departed his childhood club amid controversy after allowing his contract to expire and is preparing for a cold welcome from disappointed supporters.
As Van Dijk was eager to emphasize, Alexander-Arnold won't receive any special treatment on the field either.
"I believe Trent is an exceptional player," the 34-year-old cautioned. "He demonstrated it countless times. He's an incredibly talented player and was crucial for us throughout those years. I was delighted to have him on my team and we achieved great success. However, now he's an adversary on Tuesday. If he features then we must make it extremely challenging for him to execute what he excels at."
Trent Alexander-Arnold's return to Anfield has come so soon. pic.twitter.com/mkPp78QyUs
Liverpool have experienced the impact of Alexander-Arnold's creative void, particularly Mohamed Salah, yet whether he even takes the field remains uncertain for a player who has been sidelined with injury for the past six weeks.
Van Dijk was more focused on tactically neutralizing Alexander-Arnold rather than creating a hostile environment from Anfield. "I won't comment on that," the Dutch captain stated when questioned about his preferred crowd response. "I believe he was exceptional during his tenure at Liverpool."
Despite his admiration for Alexander-Arnold's talent, Van Dijk disclosed that he's maintained minimal communication with his former teammate of nearly ten years. "Very little, no. Nothing personal at all. Obviously I'm living my life and he's living his in Madrid."
Arne Slot Unsure of Alexander-Arnold Reception
Liverpool boss Arne Slot refused to discuss his team's tactical preparations for the fullback, but confessed that he had "no idea" whether the Anfield faithful would give Alexander-Arnold a positive reception.
"I can only share what kind of welcome he receives from me," a smiling Slot informed the gathered press. "I have wonderful memories of both the player and the person. He served as my vice captain last season and I have recollections of working with him that were entirely positive and memories from watching him on television that were equally positive—I can recall numerous brilliant moments of his in a Liverpool jersey."
Ryan Gravenberch intends to offer a friendly greeting of his own. "When I encounter him, I'll embrace him," Liverpool's defensive midfielder grinned. "He's a mate."