Michael Owen has opened up about the reality of returning to Anfield after leaving Liverpool for Real Madrid — and his experience serves as a major warning for Trent Alexander-Arnold ahead of his own emotional comeback.
Trent is set to face Liverpool on Tuesday in a blockbuster Champions League tie, just five months after he walked away from his boyhood club to join Real Madrid on a free transfer.
His exit caused huge controversy. Trent himself admitted it was “one of the hardest decisions” of his life, and many expect a hostile welcome at Anfield. Speaking to Amazon Prime, he revealed he has “mixed emotions” about stepping back onto the pitch he once called home.
> “When the draw came out, everyone knew it was bound to happen. It was written in the stars,” he said. “They’re a top team, so I knew I’d play against Liverpool sooner or later. It will be a very tough game, but one I’m excited for. A massive game on a massive stage.”
On the reception from Liverpool fans, he remained respectful:
> “Whatever way I’m received, that’s up to the fans. I’ll always love the club. I’ll always be grateful for what we achieved together — those memories will stay with me forever. No matter what, my feelings won’t change.”
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Owen’s Emotional Warning to Trent
Owen made the same move to Real Madrid back in 2004. He only spent one season in Spain before returning to England with Newcastle. But when he returned to Anfield, some fans booed him — and the sting remains years later.
During an interview with Off The Ball, he said:
> “When I heard boos at Anfield, it felt like a dagger to the heart for everything I did for the club and how much I still cared.”
Liverpool fans even chanted: “Where were you in Istanbul?” — reminding him he missed the 2005 Champions League triumph.
Things got worse in 2009 when Owen signed for Manchester United, increasing the tension with Liverpool supporters. He admitted he still feels uncomfortable visiting Anfield:
> “I lost control of the perception of my career the moment I chose to join Real Madrid. I know I’m not loved at Anfield anymore. I only go there when I’m working.”
He revealed that resentment from fans actually began before the Manchester United move, even while he was at Newcastle:
> “That one decision in 2004 has defined my relationship with Liverpool.”
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How Liverpool Players Reacted to Trent’s Return
Trent also revealed that Andy Robertson, Mo Salah, and Ibrahima Konaté messaged him after the draw was announced.
> “We were all laughing when the draw came out because everyone knew it would happen eventually.”
He expects Liverpool’s atmosphere to make the match even more intense:
> “It will be a difficult game — the crowd and the reception will play a big part. Even though results haven’t gone their way recently, Liverpool are still a top team. Nobody here thinks it’ll be easy.”
Trent also confirmed he would not celebrate if he scores:
> “If I scored, I wouldn’t celebrate. No.”
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Will Anfield Boo Him Again?
Trent was already booed by sections of Anfield last season after announcing his departure. Many fans remain upset over the way he left, meaning another wave of hostility is likely.
Still, Trent insists nothing will change how he feels about Liverpool:
> “I’ll always love the club and always be a fan. The memories will stay with me for life — and no matter how I’m received, that won’t change.”
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