Carlo Ancelotti responded to rumors that Real Madrid could sign Trent Alexander-Arnold (Image: Getty)
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has refused to comment on transfer rumors linking his club with Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold. The England star, whose contract at Anfield expires next summer, has been frequently linked with a move to the Spanish giants.
Alexander-Arnold is expected to be on the bench for Wednesday night's clash against Ancelotti's side after recovering from a hamstring injury, fueling further speculation over his future with the Reds.
Asked before the match about potential interest in Alexander-Arnold, Ancelotti deflected the question. However, he expressed his admiration for Liverpool and admitted he still feels an affinity with Everton, having managed the Reds' local rivals.
“I'm sorry but I can't think of Alexander-Arnold,” he said when asked about the Reds full-back. “He's not my player. I have fond memories of Everton and I regard Liverpool with the usual respect; they're a fantastic club with great supporters. But I'm still an Evertonian!
“It will be a very intense match. We are two historic clubs, each with our own characteristics, and it will be interesting to see who can impose theirs. Liverpool are always a tough competitor. They were under Klopp, and they continue to do so . be under the direction of their new coach.
“Liverpool have performed exceptionally well so far, better than us in the domestic competition. But now we are back and hope to put up a good fight against some formidable opposition. We hope to be in the pack as usual by now the end of the season.”
Alexander-Arnold could return against Real Madrid (Image: Getty)
Ancelotti was also asked about former club Everton's recent struggles, since leaving in 2021 to manage Real Madrid, the Liverpool Echo reports.
“Of course I’m Everton,” he added. “I am the club, I follow the results. Call me tomorrow after the match and I will tell you about (their difficulties).”
Los Blancos travel to Anfield with several key players missing due to injury, including Vinicius Junior, Aurélien Tchouameni, Eder Militao, David Alaba, Dani Carvajal and Rodrygo. Ancelotti has named a 19-man traveling squad, and it appears 21-year-old Raul Asencio will start in central defense against Liverpool.
“I see it [Asencio] well, with personality,” Ancelotti said. “He's always very good, focused. He has done very well in the last two games and I am convinced that he will do well tomorrow.”
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1981251/ancelotti-alexander-arnold-liverpool-real-madrid