Trent Alexander-Arnold Opens Up About His Challenging Real Madrid Debut and Club World Cup Ambitions
Following three games under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, Trent Alexander-Arnold discussed his fresh beginning at Real Madrid, sharing insights about the difficulties that accompanied his prominent transfer.
Alexander-Arnold dedicated two decades to Merseyside, claiming every possible trophy with Liverpool, before making his move to Real Madrid as a free agent this summer. The defender had only a brief period between his last appearance at Anfield and his inaugural match wearing the white jersey at the FIFA Club World Cup.
His choice to leave his childhood club generated varying responses, similar to his Real Madrid introduction. Alexander-Arnold faced difficulties in his initial outing for Los Blancos, struggling to match Al Hilal's Salem Al-Dawsari's pace, losing over half his individual battles and recording no successful tackles during his 65-minute appearance.
The 26-year-old gradually adapted to wearing the white jersey, however, delivering a significantly better performance against Pachuca before producing his finest display in his brief Real Madrid career against RB Salzburg. In Los Blancos' commanding 3–0 triumph over the Austrian team, Alexander-Arnold generated the highest number of scoring opportunities, including an exceptional backheel assist to Jude Bellingham that nearly resulted in a goal, while also recording the most successful tackles.
After this outstanding display, Alexander-Arnold spoke with Mail Sport and provided insight into his adjustment to both Real Madrid and his new position as a right wing-back.
"I found it enjoyable [operating as wing-back]. Adjusting to a different position within a new squad will always present difficulties, but I thrive on such challenges. They bring out my best qualities," Alexander-Arnold explained.
"It clearly functioned well and represents a positive beginning. There's still progress to be made, but these are encouraging indicators and our strongest performance to date. I'm delighted to be part of this squad and I'm passionate about playing football. Regardless of my position, I love participating in the game."
Alonso implemented a 3-5-2 formation against Salzburg, enabling Alexander-Arnold and Fran García to advance aggressively during possession on both flanks. The England representative enjoyed considerable attacking freedom, confident in the defensive support provided by Dean Huijsen, Aurélien Tchouaméni and Antonio Rüdiger.
Nevertheless, Alexander-Arnold continues working to bridge the communication gap with his new teammates.
"The coach frequently speaks with me individually to ensure my complete understanding since all team meetings are conducted in Spanish," Alexander-Arnold disclosed. "The language barrier presents the greatest challenge and will require time to overcome."
Having secured first place in Group H, Real Madrid must now prepare for the Club World Cup elimination rounds. Los Blancos are scheduled to face Juventus in the round of 16 on July 1.
"The adjustment phase is complete and now it's about progressing forward, becoming the finest player possible and contributing to the team's success in as many matches as we can, beginning with this tournament. This is elimination football," Alexander-Arnold stated.
"This club's legacy demonstrates our trophy-winning tradition. It's our identity. It's embedded in the club's essence. That represents our goal and aspiration, and that's what we're determined to achieve."