Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Real Madrid future clarified after Xabi Alonso exit
A signing made before the change
Real Madrid reached an agreement to sign Trent Alexander-Arnold before Xabi Alonso was appointed head coach, according to reporting by Spanish outlet El Nacional. At the time of the move, Alexander-Arnold arrived in Spain with a reputation as one of Europe’s most influential right-backs, built during his years at Liverpool.
Expectations were high, but his situation shifted quickly once the season got underway. Rather than becoming an automatic starter, he found himself rotating and competing with Dani Carvajal for minutes in the starting lineup.
Injuries and competition reshape his role
When Carvajal was sidelined through injury, Alexander-Arnold appeared poised for a sustained run in the team. That window closed soon after when he suffered a muscle injury of his own, preventing him from establishing any rhythm.
With limited options available, Alonso opted to use Federico Valverde at right-back. According to El Nacional, the positional change was not welcomed by Valverde, who preferred to remain in midfield, adding to internal frustration during a difficult period.
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At the same time, Alexander-Arnold became increasingly unhappy with his lack of game time. Media speculation followed, linking the England international with possible moves to Manchester United and Chelsea, as doubts around his long-term place in Madrid grew.
Tension behind the scenes
El Nacional reported that the relationship between Alonso and Alexander-Arnold had become strained. The outlet claimed Alonso questioned the defender’s work ethic, while inconsistent performances and recurring injuries further complicated matters.
The report also noted that Alexander-Arnold was among the players who did not publicly acknowledge Alonso’s departure, a detail that added weight to suggestions of a breakdown in trust between player and coach.
According to the same report, had Alonso remained in charge, Alexander-Arnold may have sought an exit during the summer transfer window.
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A different path under new leadership
With Alonso now gone, Real Madrid’s coaching structure has shifted, and Alexander-Arnold is expected to work under Alvaro Arbeloa. The change represents a reset rather than a guarantee, but it does offer a chance to reestablish his standing within the squad.
Alexander-Arnold continues his recovery from a muscle tear sustained in early December. A return in early February is considered realistic, a moment that could prove significant as Madrid reassess their options and hierarchy at right-back during the second half of the season.
Sources: El Nacional
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