Liverpool could face a challenging situation when the dates for their Champions League group stage matches are announced. According to the Liverpool Echo, the draw has placed them in a tough group with Real Madrid among their eight opponents, potentially complicating their campaign.
The report notes that the last two group stage matches are scheduled for the final two weeks of January, which could create problems for Liverpool. This is due to uncertainty surrounding the future of key players Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose contracts expire in June 2025.
Starting in January, these players will be eligible to negotiate and sign preliminary contracts with other clubs. The situation is particularly concerning for Arnold, who has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, with various reports suggesting that the Spanish club is keen to acquire the English defender.
The British network explained that if Liverpool’s match against Real Madrid is scheduled for the latter part of January, Real Madrid would be able to start negotiations with Trent Alexander-Arnold about a possible transfer. The network confirmed that Arnold could potentially reach an agreement with Real Madrid when the teams face each other in the Champions League early in the new year.
Furthermore, the potential clash between the two teams this month could facilitate negotiations between the clubs, as Real Madrid will travel to England to play at Anfield.
