Could Trent Alexander-Arnold Be Real Madrid's Missing Piece?
The diminishing Liverpool legacy isn't sufficient to maintain Trent Alexander-Arnold in the favorable standing with Xabi Alonso and Real Madrid supporters; the England defender must finally meet the demands that come with wearing the new crest during this period of instability for Real Madrid.
Crisis discussions are commonplace in Spain's capital city. Two consecutive disappointing performances? Real Madrid face a crisis. Excessive players in the treatment room? Real Madrid encounter a crisis. A summer acquisition hasn't met the anticipated standards? Real Madrid experience a crisis.
This pattern continues season after season, regardless of Los Blancos' position in La Liga. Even when a campaign concludes with trophies, the story focuses on whatever crisis the team overcame to achieve such success.
Adjusting to the demands and standards of playing for the world's most prestigious club happens immediately for some—witness Jude Bellingham's inaugural season. For others, like Alexander-Arnold, the adjustment requires additional time.
However, time is something Real Madrid supporters seldom grant star acquisitions, particularly those of the fullback's caliber. When you factor in increasing injury concerns—another crisis—any previously given patience disappears.
Real Madrid Devastated by Defensive Injuries
Los Blancos believed they addressed last season's injury crisis during the summer transfer period. The club not only acquired three defensive reinforcements in Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen and Álvaro Carreras, but also welcomed back Dani Carvajal and Éder Militão from their respective ACL recoveries.
However, just four months into his inaugural season as manager, Alonso finds himself lacking most of his defensive line. Antonio Rüdiger and Carvajal, both long-term casualties, were recently accompanied on the injury list by Huijsen and Militão, who each returned from international assignments with fitness concerns.
Makeshift defenders Federico Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni and Eduardo Camavinga are also dealing with problems that make their availability questionable for Real Madrid's return to league competition.
Alonso, therefore, has only Carreras, Raúl Asencio and Alexander-Arnold as completely healthy defenders at Real Madrid's disposal. David Alaba and Ferland Mendy are theoretically available, but neither has played since their latest injury spells.
Mounting Expectations on Alexander-Arnold
With such limited personnel available, the already increasing expectations on Alexander-Arnold will transform into an overwhelming, concrete burden. The former Liverpool defender will not only be required to help revitalize Real Madrid's sluggish offense, but will also shoulder greater defensive duties.
Typically the defensive aspect would present the greatest worry for Alexander-Arnold, who has faced criticism throughout his career for inadequate performances in his own territory. This scrutiny accompanied the 26-year-old to the Spanish capital, where he was again vulnerable defensively in both the Club World Cup and his La Liga introduction.
Nevertheless, Alexander-Arnold also faltered offensively at Real Madrid. Many of his assets, from his exceptional set piece accuracy to his impressive crosses from the right wing, have been absent since he exchanged his red jersey for white.
The England defender has recorded just one assist and no goals in 12 Real Madrid appearances. Certainly, the hamstring problem that sidelined him for almost two months hindered any potential development.
Nevertheless, concerning signs emerged at both ends of the field during his limited outings, issues that will only intensify without star defenders or Kylian Mbappé's explosive beginning to provide cover.
Alexander-Arnold Must Solve Real Madrid's Problems
Alexander-Arnold must now spearhead Alonso's defense. He needs to guide a youthful, unproven, improvised backline. Los Blancos desperately need the right-back version that helped elevate Liverpool to Premier League and Champions League success.
The demanding responsibility might seem unfair given his extended absence, but Alexander-Arnold has no remaining time to establish himself wearing the Real Madrid jersey. Barcelona trail by just three points behind the 15-time European champions, meaning another mistake could cost the club its La Liga leadership position.
Alexander-Arnold acknowledged he transferred from Merseyside to Madrid seeking a fresh challenge, one that might establish him as a cornerstone among the legends who have worn Real Madrid's white jersey. This aspiration can only materialize if he performs when the club requires him most.
Eventually, that crucial moment might arrive in El Clásico or a Champions League elimination match. Currently, however, it begins against Elche. It continues against Olympiacos and Girona and subsequently Athletic Club. Because Alexander-Arnold can only establish a Real Madrid-worthy legacy by consistently delivering when there are literally no alternatives available.