Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to be on the bench against Real Madrid on Wednesday, with his Liverpool future continuing to be the subject of speculation
Carlo Ancelotti has refused to comment on transfer rumours linking Real Madrid with a move for Liverpool vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold. The England international is out of contract at Anfield next summer and has regularly been linked with a move to the La Liga giants.
The 26-year-old is set to be on the bench against Ancelotti’s side on Wednesday night after overcoming a hamstring injury, with his Reds future continuing to be the subject of speculation.
Speaking ahead of the game, Ancelotti sidestepped when he was asked about possible interest in Alexander-Arnold. But he shared his respect for Liverpool, while also admitting he still considers himself an Evertonian after previously managing the Reds’ local-rivals.
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“I’m sorry but I cannot think about Alexander-Arnold,” he said. “He is not my player.”
“I have a good memory of Everton and I consider Liverpool with usual respect, fantastic club and supporters. But I’m still an Evertonian!
“It will be very intense. We are two historic clubs. We each have our own characteristics and we’ll see who can impose them. Liverpool are always very competitive. It was with Klopp, it is with the new coach.”
“Liverpool has done really well until now, better than us in domestic competition. But now we are back and hope to play a good game against tough opposition. At the end of the season, we hope to be there as usual.”
Meanwhile, Ancelotti was also asked about Everton’s recent struggles since the left the club in the summer of 2021 to take over at Real Madrid.
“Of course I follow Everton,” he said. “I follow the club, I follow the results. Call me tomorrow after the game and I will talk to you about this (their struggles).”
Real Madrid travel to Anfield without a number of star players because of injury. Naming a 19-man travelling squad, Ancelotti is without the services of Vinicius Junior, Aurelien Tchouameni, Eder Militao, David Alaba, Dani Carvajal and Rodrygo for their meeting with Arne Slot’s side.
As a result of such absences, the Italian seemingly confirmed that 21-year-old Raul Asencio will retain his place and start at centre-back against Liverpool.
“I see him well, with personality,” he said. “He’s always very good, focused. He did very well in the last two games and I’m convinced he’ll do well tomorrow.”
