Xabi Alonso names his squad as two Madrid stars get ready for an emotional return to Anfield.

For most fans, this match was already huge — but with both Xabi Alonso and Trent Alexander-Arnold returning to Anfield, it’s set to take on an entirely different atmosphere.

According to Real Madrid’s official announcement, the Spanish club has released their travelling squad for Tuesday’s Champions League fixture, and it features both the former Liverpool midfielder and the defender who recently swapped Merseyside for Madrid.

Real Madrid announce squad heading to Anfield

Alonso’s team trained at Valdebebas this morning before flying to England. The session focused on pressing, tactical preparations, and finishing.

Antonio Rüdiger, David Alaba, and Dani Carvajal remain sidelined due to injury, while young Mastantuono trained separately indoors.

The 22-man squad — which includes Mbappé, Bellingham, Vinícius Jr., Endrick, and Alexander-Arnold — is scheduled to arrive in Liverpool later today.

Squad list:
Courtois, Lunin, Gonzalez; Militao, Trent, Asencio, Carreras, Fran Garcia, Mendy, Huijsen; Bellingham, Camavinga, Valverde, Tchouaméni, Güler, Ceballos; Vinícius Jr., Endrick, Mbappé, Rodrygo, Gonzalo, Brahim.

For Alonso, it’s a sentimental return to the stadium where he helped shape Liverpool’s legendary 2005 Istanbul triumph.
For Trent, the feeling is completely different — stepping back into a place he once called home, now wearing the badge of the club he used to view as an opponent.

Liverpool brace for an emotional night at Anfield

This comes after Trent’s comments to Amazon Prime Video Sport, where he said he’ll “always feel the same way about Liverpool,” only heightening the emotion around his reception on the night.

On Liverpool’s side, there’s mixed team news: Curtis Jones is back in training, but Alexander Isak suffered another setback and missed Monday’s session at Kirkby, as reported by Paul Joyce.

No matter the result, this match will be more than just a fight for qualification.

It will be about two familiar faces returning to Anfield — one as a hero, the other a reminder that loyalty in football is never guaranteed.