
Anfield Index
·17 April 2025
Liverpool ace likely to return for clash that could seal the title

Anfield Index
·17 April 2025
Liverpool supporters were handed a much-needed dose of optimism this week as The Athletic revealed that Trent Alexander-Arnold has returned to training, albeit partially, following an ankle injury sustained against Paris Saint-Germain. The 26-year-old has missed the Reds’ last four fixtures, but the sight of him back at Kirkby will buoy fans and teammates alike.
Photo IMAGO
Although the England international is not expected to feature against Leicester City this weekend, there is growing belief he will be fit in time for the showdown against Tottenham Hotspur at the end of April — a match that could crown Liverpool as Premier League champions. According to The Athletic, Alexander-Arnold “only took part in small sections of Wednesday’s session,” as Arne Slot and his medical staff adopt a cautious but calculated approach.
Slot’s pragmatic handling of Alexander-Arnold’s recovery offers a window into the Dutchman’s footballing philosophy — results matter, but longevity trumps urgency. With Conor Bradley rising to the occasion and impressing at right-back, there is no temptation to rush Liverpool’s vice-captain back into action prematurely. In truth, Liverpool can afford to be patient.
Six points are all that stand between the Reds and a Premier League triumph, and Leicester, marooned in the relegation slots, are unlikely to derail the title charge. That makes Tottenham, a fixture laced with drama and narrative, the perfect stage for Alexander-Arnold to re-emerge. A win there could seal the title and offer the West Derby native a fitting swansong in front of the Kop.
There’s an emotional subplot that can’t be ignored. With reports suggesting Alexander-Arnold is set to join Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer, each match he misses feels like a page torn out of an iconic chapter. He will be desperate to ensure the final lines of his Liverpool story are written with silverware in hand.
Photo: IMAGO
“He’ll want to be on the pitch when the moment finally happens,” The Athletic notes — and it’s hard to disagree. From that unforgettable free-kick against Hoffenheim to the quick corner that changed Europe, Alexander-Arnold has never just played for Liverpool; he’s helped shape its modern era.
While opinion remains split on his impending departure, most supporters would relish seeing him lift the Premier League trophy in red one last time. And what better opponent than Spurs, a side whose own ambitions have so often crumbled under the Anfield lights? A triumphant return in a title-clinching game would not only cement his legacy — it would heal some of the wounds his exit may leave.
Trent’s return? It’s everything. It’s not just about having one of Europe’s most technically gifted full-backs back in the squad — it’s about the heartbeat of this Liverpool side stepping back onto the stage for what could be the final act.
If this is the end, let it be glorious. Let it be thunderous crosses to the back post, raking diagonals from inside his own half, and arms lifted to the roar of the Kop. Trent Alexander-Arnold has divided opinion at times, but no one can deny what he’s given us. From Madrid to May, he’s been the spark, the scouser in our team.
Let’s not forget: if we beat Leicester and Trent’s back to face Spurs, we’re talking about one of the most poetic comebacks in Premier League history. Arne Slot’s measured approach is spot on — why risk him now when you can let him light up Anfield in the moment that really matters?
And for anyone questioning his loyalty — don’t. He’s earned the right to choose his path. If he leaves, he leaves a legend. But for now, one more dance, Trent. Let it be unforgettable.