Virgil van Dijk has revealed that he has not been in touch with former Liverpool teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold since his transfer to Real Madrid. As the England international prepares to make his return to Anfield for a Champions League clash against Liverpool on Tuesday, Van Dijk emphasized the importance of making things difficult for Alexander-Arnold during the match.
Alexander-Arnold departed Liverpool at the close of last season after making an impressive 354 appearances for the club he joined at just six years old. His decision to leave—and criticism surrounding him running down his contract with the team—has not gone unnoticed by fans. In a statement about the upcoming match, Van Dijk acknowledged Alexander-Arnold’s talent, referring to him as a “quality player” who has been instrumental in Liverpool’s past successes. “He has shown it many times, and I was very happy to have him in my team,” said Van Dijk. “But now he’s an opponent on Tuesday.”
When asked if he would prefer a hostile reception for Alexander-Arnold at Anfield, Van Dijk opted not to comment, appreciating the defender’s contributions to the club during his tenure.
In a reflective moment, Alexander-Arnold spoke about his feelings towards Liverpool, noting that the reception he receives from the fans is ultimately their choice. “My feelings won’t change towards Liverpool,” he said, conveying a deep appreciation for the club that shaped his career. “I will always love the club. I will always be a fan of the club.”
This upcoming match not only marks a significant moment for Alexander-Arnold but also highlights the mixed emotions often present when former players return to their old grounds. As Liverpool prepares to face Madrid, both players are set to experience the weight of their shared history, creating a blend of competition and nostalgia that adds extra intrigue to the match.