“Medical expert outlines expected recovery timeline for Trent’s ‘very serious’ injury.”

Liverpool’s painful Champions League exit to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday was made worse by Trent Alexander-Arnold’s injury. The vice-captain was clearly in distress after rolling his ankle in the second half at Anfield, forcing him to be substituted in the 73rd minute, with Jarell Quansah replacing him.

After the match, Arne Slot admitted he’d be “surprised” if the 26-year-old recovered in time for Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Newcastle, a possibility that has now been completely ruled out.

How long will Trent be out?

Shane Ryan, an advanced practice physiotherapist and director of Motherwell Physio, has assessed Trent’s injury and suggested that the best-case scenario would see him return by late April.

Speaking via motherwell.physio on TikTok, Ryan explained: “The way his foot catches on the ground, it’s really nasty. This type of injury is usually how high ankle sprains occur, where the ligaments higher up in the ankle—specifically the anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL)—get torn.”

He emphasized that high ankle sprains are more serious than standard ones, typically keeping players out for six to eight weeks, though recovery can take longer depending on the severity. He added: “Hopefully, it’s nothing worse because these injuries can sometimes lead to fractures and long-term instability.”

Trent expected back before season’s end

If Ryan’s prediction is correct, Trent should return before the season concludes. Given speculation about a possible summer departure if he doesn’t sign a contract extension, there were initial fears this injury could mean he had played his last game for Liverpool. Fortunately, that doesn’t seem to be the case.

The 26-year-old will, however, miss a second consecutive Carabao Cup final due to injury. With Conor Bradley also unavailable, Quansah is expected to start at right-back against Newcastle at Wembley. While not ideal, the youngster performed well in that role when he came on against PSG.

Liverpool’s schedule offers some relief, as they won’t play again for 17 days after the final. According to projections from Premier Injuries, that break could allow Bradley enough time to return for the Merseyside derby on April 2.

Slot will likely be asked about Trent’s recovery timeline in his pre-final press conference, though his response will likely align with Ryan’s prognosis.