Real Madrid Star Issues Stern Warning to Trent Alexander-Arnold Over Starting Spot Battle

Just two games into the La Liga campaign, an intriguing competition has emerged for a starting position in Real Madrid's first team.

Trent Alexander-Arnold was given the right-back role for Real Madrid's opening fixture against Osasuna. While Los Blancos secured the win, the England defender struggled to impress in his debut appearance at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Seven days later, Xabi Alonso implemented several changes to his starting eleven, notably handing club icon Dani Carvajal his first start in more than 10 months. Having fully recovered from the ACL injury he sustained in October 2024, Carvajal produced a vintage display, particularly in defensive phases. Los Blancos proceeded to cruise past Real Oviedo with a commanding 3–0 victory.

It's evident that Carvajal not only retains his ability to excel on the field, but he also serves as Real Madrid's captain and influential figure. Due to this, The Athletic indicates that individuals within the Spaniard's circle anticipate him maintaining his starting role under Alonso for the foreseeable future, irrespective of Alexander-Arnold's arrival.

Across two appearances, Carvajal has demonstrated superior control of Los Blancos' right side. The ex-Liverpool player may require an adaptation period to the new competition, but Real Madrid operates as a club that doesn't accommodate delays, demanding instant success.

An apparent rivalry exists between the new signing and the veteran, a contest that could benefit both individuals and Real Madrid collectively.

Alonso remains in pursuit of his preferred formation during the early stages of his Real Madrid management. Nevertheless, as Carvajal accumulates more playing time to eliminate any lingering effects from his extended injury layoff, he'll pose an even greater challenge for the England international.

Alexander-Arnold faces mounting expectations to rediscover his best form and demonstrate his abilities, otherwise he risks spending most of his inaugural Spanish season as Carvajal's understudy. Alternatively, Alonso might begin testing Alexander-Arnold in different roles.