Clear verdict: Madrid gain a leader, Liverpool lose their way

November 27, 2025 Oliver Obel

Real Madrid’s 4–3 win away to Olympiacos, reported by Reuters and covered extensively by Marca, ended a brief run of poor results that had raised questions about the squad’s mood.

The Guardian recently noted frustration within the team linked to ongoing contract discussions with Vinícius Júnior, and Spanish radio commentators had been describing the atmosphere as tense in recent days.

The match in Greece provided some overdue relief. Kylian Mbappé scored all four goals for Madrid, but several Spanish analysts pointed out that Alexander-Arnold produced his most assured performance since joining the club.

This was only his second full match since returning from a hamstring issue, yet he played with a composure Madrid supporters had not seen consistently until now.

On social media, fans praised everything from his long-range passing to his decision-making when pressed by Olympiacos. “Trent Alexander-Arnold is still the best right-back in football.

He changes everything for us in the build up and can create a chance out of nothing,” one supporter wrote. Another added, “Trent Alexander-Arnold is so good.”

A third fan called him “a genius of football,” while others admired the speed with which he moved the ball. One comment described his progression as “effortless.”

The Spanish outlet Managing Madrid rated him an 8 out of 10 and highlighted how consistently his long passes found their target.

Finding rhythm under Alonso

Alexander-Arnold’s introduction to Xabi Alonso’s system has taken time, and an early-season injury slowed the process. Recent performances, though, suggest he is settling in.

Callers on Cadena SER’s post-match broadcast pointed out how his diagonal switches forced Olympiacos to constantly reorganize defensively. One fan described him as “a cheat code” when the team protects the space behind him effectively.

Madrid travel to Girona next as they attempt to maintain momentum in La Liga.

Liverpool’s evening grows darker

Liverpool’s night was far less encouraging. BBC Sport reported a 4–1 defeat to PSV Eindhoven at Anfield, a result that increases the pressure on head coach Arne Slot and reopens debate about the club’s defensive setup. Liverpool have yet to find a stable right-back solution since Alexander-Arnold’s departure.

Earlier this year, Slot suggested, in remarks covered by Sky Sports, that Alexander-Arnold needed to improve defensively. His own current approach has drawn criticism, with Dominik Szoboszlai regularly deployed as an improvised right-back and summer signing Jeremie Frimpong still adjusting to the Premier League.

After Madrid’s victory, Alexander-Arnold posted on Instagram: “Big away win! Let’s build on that this weekend, vamosss.”

For Madrid and Liverpool, the two matches underlined how differently their seasons are unfolding, and how the effects of Alexander-Arnold’s move continue to be felt.

Sources: Reuters, BBC, AP, The Guardian, Marca, Cadena SER, Sky Sports.