Trent Alexander-Arnold Has a Hard Start at Real Madrid

Trent Alexander-Arnold joined Real Madrid in 2025. His start has been difficult with injuries and some problems with how he plays. The club says they still believe in him.
By Newsroom | Football, Spain |

The career path of Trent Alexander-Arnold has taken a complex turn following his move to Real Madrid. Early reports indicate a period of adjustment, marked by both on-field struggles and external commentary, leading to significant discussion about his role and future with the Spanish club.

Background and Transfer Context

Trent Alexander-Arnold, a prominent figure from Liverpool, joined Real Madrid during the summer of 2025. The transfer, initially reported as a free transfer as his contract wound down, later involved a fee to make him available for the Club World Cup. This move came after his final season with Liverpool, where he appeared in 33 matches during their Premier League title win under Arne Slot. The decision to leave his boyhood club and move to Spain has been a subject of considerable debate, with former Liverpool icon Jamie Carragher cautioning Alexander-Arnold about the potential impact on his standing with the Anfield faithful.

Read More: Nottingham Forest Fires Manager Sean Dyche

Trent Alexander-Arnold named at centre of bizarre Real Madrid plot - 1

Performance and Tactical Adjustments

Initial observations from Alexander-Arnold's Real Madrid debut have highlighted specific areas of concern. In his La Liga debut against Osasuna, he attempted seven crosses, with only one finding its intended target. This has drawn attention, given that crossing is often cited as one of his strengths. His involvement in build-up play has also been noted; in some instances, he appeared isolated on his flank due to Real Madrid's tendency to focus their attacks on the opposite side.

There have been discussions about his tactical positioning, with questions raised about whether he is best suited as a right-back or a right wing-back. While a four-man defensive shape has provided him with opportunities to drop into central areas, where he can utilize his long-range passing, the overall tactical integration remains a focal point.

Read More: Ronald Araujo is Barcelona's Second Captain and Playing Again

Trent Alexander-Arnold named at centre of bizarre Real Madrid plot - 2

Injury and Selection Challenges

Alexander-Arnold's tenure at Real Madrid has been further complicated by injury issues. He was ruled out for "months" in early December 2025 due to an unspecified injury, forcing him to miss key fixtures such as the Champions League clash against Manchester City and the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Atletico Madrid. This latest setback adds to a difficult start, impacting his ability to consistently break into manager Xabi Alonso's starting eleven. Despite being a player with "great qualities" and "exceptional" talent, as noted by an unnamed source within the club, his physical availability has been a recurring theme.

External Commentary and England Status

Commentary from figures outside Real Madrid has also contributed to the narrative surrounding Alexander-Arnold. Thomas Tuchel, for instance, has commented on Alexander-Arnold's position within the England setup, suggesting that he is behind a former Liverpool teammate in the pecking order at right-back. This observation, even when referencing a teammate not typically playing at right-back, underscores the intense scrutiny on Alexander-Arnold's form and selection.

Club Perception and Future Outlook

Despite the acknowledged challenges, reports suggest that Real Madrid maintains confidence in Trent Alexander-Arnold. One report indicated that the club has "no concerns" about the player, attributing his difficult start to the adjustment period. The club has reportedly managed his integration, reflecting a belief in his present and future contributions. Manager Xabi Alonso has spoken about the need to provide Alexander-Arnold with the support he needs, acknowledging his exceptional abilities and emphasizing the importance of him enjoying his experience.

Read More: Spurs Look at Tactics and Player Choices

"We need his qualities; he has great qualities. He has to have his own feelings and enjoy it his own way. So I am not going to say how he needs to feel it. We need to give him what he needs because he is an exceptional player that we have in our squad. So he needs to enjoy the moment because it is nice to be back."

Alvaro Arbeloa, a former Liverpool player now associated with Real Madrid, has reportedly suggested that Alexander-Arnold could leave the club in the summer, a claim that intensifies speculation. This sentiment contrasts with the club's stated position of confidence, creating a nuanced picture of his standing within the Bernabeu.

Summary of Key Information

  • Player: Trent Alexander-Arnold

  • Club: Real Madrid

  • Transfer Date: Summer 2025

  • Key Challenges:

  • Inconsistent crossing accuracy in early matches.

  • Tactical integration and positional questions.

  • Recurrent injury issues leading to missed games.

  • External commentary on form and England selection.

  • Club Stance: Reported confidence in the player's long-term value and potential.

  • Manager: Xabi Alonso (at Real Madrid)

Sources Used

  • TeamTalk: Article discusses Alexander-Arnold's "nightmare" start, citing Tuchel's comments and potential competition from Jarell Quansah.

  • Link: https://www.teamtalk.com/news/trent-alexander-arnold-real-madrid-nightmare-sinks-new-low-tuchel-comments-ex-liverpool-star-promotion

  • The New York Times (The Athletic): Articles focusing on Alexander-Arnold's turbulent year, his performance for Madrid, and tactical considerations like his role as a right-back or wing-back and his passing range.

  • Link 1: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6587272/2025/09/01/trent-alexander-arnold-real-madrid-form/

  • Link 2: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6553303/2025/08/17/trent-alexander-arnold-real-madrid-reinvention/

  • The Standard: Reports Alexander-Arnold being ruled out with an injury for "months," impacting his availability for significant matches.

  • Link: https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/trent-alexander-arnold-injury-real-madrid-liverpool-fc-b1261129.html

  • Liverpool.com: Discusses speculation surrounding Alexander-Arnold's future, including claims from former players about potential regrets.

  • Link: https://www.liverpool.com/liverpool-fc-news/features/trent-alexander-arnold-speculation-intensifies-33348335

  • GiveMeSport: Highlights a perceived major flaw in his playing style observed during his La Liga debut, specifically his crossing accuracy.

  • Link: https://www.givemesport.com/trent-alexander-arnold-issue-spotted-real-madrid-la-liga-debut-osasuna

  • Goal.com: Notes Alexander-Arnold's reaction to receiving boos upon his return to Anfield with Real Madrid.

  • Link: https://www.goal.com/en/lists/video-trent-alexander-arnold-laughing-boos-ex-liverpool-hostile-reception/blte69d14ec4dddf82c

  • Sports Mole: Reports that Real Madrid allegedly has "no concerns" about Alexander-Arnold despite his difficult start, maintaining confidence in him.

  • Link: https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/real-madrid/news/convinced-real-madrids-true-feelings-on-trent-revealed-after-tough-start_585881.html

Read More: Real Madrid Wants To Win Again Against Valencia

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Trent Alexander-Arnold move to Real Madrid?
He moved in the summer of 2025 after his contract with Liverpool ended.
Q: What problems has he had?
He has had injuries and some people question his playing style, like his crosses.
Q: Does Real Madrid still want him?
Yes, the club says they have no worries and believe he is a good player.
Q: Has he missed many games?
Yes, an injury in late 2025 made him miss important games.