The classic rivalry between Liverpool and Real Madrid is renewed in the UEFA Champions League as Los Blancos arrive at Anfield under the management of former Liverpool star, Xabi Alonso. The match is marked by the contrasting forms of the two sides.
Under Xabi Alonso, who took over from Carlo Ancelotti after last season, Real Madrid has enjoyed a nearly immaculate start, winning 13 of 14 matches this season.
Their only loss was a 5-2 derby defeat to Atletico Madrid. Most recently, they secured a crucial win against rivals Barcelona in La Liga and routed Valencia 4-0 last weekend.
Alonso has brought greater defensive intensity and tactical flexibility to the squad.
Arne Slot's Liverpool, despite being the Premier League champions, has struggled recently, securing only two wins in their last eight games. However, a confidence-boosting 2-0 victory over Aston Villa on Saturday, which saw star player Mohamed Salah score, provides a morale lift ahead of the pivotal European clash.
Xabi Alonso, who was the "brains" of Liverpool's midfield from 2004 to 2009 and a key part of the 2005 Champions League-winning squad, makes an emotional return to Anfield. His coaching impact at Madrid has been immediate, transforming the team's defensive approach.
In a tactical move to maintain secrecy, Alonso confirmed Real Madrid will not train at Anfield before the match, choosing instead to conduct their session in Madrid. "We prefer to do it at home, in our space, so they don’t put 200 cameras on us," he stated, giving Liverpool manager Arne Slot no early clues about his lineup or approach.
