Carlo Ancelotti Avoids Trent Alexander-Arnold Transfer Talk Ahead of Liverpool Clash
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has sidestepped questions regarding the club's reported interest in Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold ahead of their crucial Champions League clash at Anfield. With the England international’s contract set to expire in 2025, rumors linking him to a move to the Spanish capital have been growing, but Ancelotti chose not to delve into the topic during his pre-match press conference.
When asked about Alexander-Arnold, Ancelotti responded with caution, stating, “I’m sorry but I cannot think about Alexander-Arnold. He is not my player." Instead, the experienced Italian boss shifted focus to the upcoming match, praising Liverpool and their manager, Arne Slot. Ancelotti acknowledged the Reds’ strong start to the season, particularly under Slot’s leadership following the departure of Jurgen Klopp, emphasizing that Liverpool remains a formidable opponent.
“Liverpool are always a tough competitor. They were under Klopp, and they continue to be under their new coach. Liverpool has performed exceptionally well so far, better than us in domestic competition," Ancelotti remarked. "But now we’re back and hoping to put up a good fight against formidable opposition.”
The tie between two of Europe’s most prestigious clubs promises to be an intense encounter, with both teams eager to assert themselves in the Champions League. Despite facing injuries to several key players—Vinicius Junior, Aurelien Tchouameni, Eder Militao, David Alaba, Dani Carvajal, and Rodrygo are all absent from the 19-man squad—Ancelotti expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete. The absence of key figures means that young Raul Asencio is likely to start in defense, with Ancelotti praising the 21-year-old’s maturity and strong performances in recent games.
“I see him well, with personality. He’s always very good, focused. He did very well in the last two games, and I’m convinced he’ll do well tomorrow,” Ancelotti said of Asencio, indicating that the young defender will play an important role in Madrid’s defensive lineup.
As Ancelotti prepares for the Champions League battle, he also took the opportunity to share his ongoing affection for his former club, Everton. Despite his successful tenure at Real Madrid, Ancelotti revealed that he still closely follows Everton’s fortunes, especially during their ongoing struggles.
“I follow the club, I follow the results,” Ancelotti admitted, highlighting his enduring connection to the Toffees. "Call me tomorrow after the game and I will talk to you about this (their struggles)."
While Real Madrid’s focus remains on the clash at Anfield, the speculation surrounding Alexander-Arnold’s future continues to make headlines, and Ancelotti’s refusal to comment suggests that any potential move for the Liverpool star remains firmly off the table—at least for now.
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