Countdown Begins: When Will Alexander-Arnold Make His Real Madrid Debut?
Real Madrid is determined to avoid another season like 2024-25, making them one of the most proactive clubs in the early summer transfer window.
With Carlo Ancelotti's second stint in the Spanish capital coming to an end, an exciting new era begins with Xabi Alonso taking charge. The former midfielder will get his first opportunity to observe his new squad in competitive action during the Club World Cup, a trophy Madrid is eager to secure.
They've invested heavily in acquiring Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth and the highly touted Franco Mastantuono from River Plate, but their most galáctico-esque signing is undoubtedly Trent Alexander-Arnold—despite his position as a right back!
The Liverpool defender was originally set to join on a free transfer this summer, but Madrid's eagerness to have him available for their United States tour prompted them to pay Liverpool €10 million (£8.4 million, $11.6 million) for his early release.
Consequently, Madrid fans won't have to wait much longer to see their new number 12 in action for the first time.
When Will Trent Alexander-Arnold Make Real Madrid Debut?
Following the payment to Liverpool, Real Madrid announced Alexander-Arnold's signing in late May and have included the English player in their Club World Cup squad.
The redesigned 32-team tournament kicks off in Florida on Saturday, June 14, with Lionel Messi's Inter Miami facing Al Ahly.
Madrid was placed in Group H, which is the final group to begin play. As a result, Alexander-Arnold is expected to make his Los Blancos debut against Saudi champions Al Hilal on Wednesday, June 18, at 3 p.m. ET (8 p.m. BST).
Although Dani Carvajal is included in Alonso's squad, he's recovering from a serious knee injury, so there's a strong possibility that Alexander-Arnold will be in the starting lineup next Wednesday. The new manager might also utilize Lucas Vázquez, who will be departing the club after the tournament concludes.
If Alexander-Arnold doesn't appear on Matchday 1, Madrid will then compete against Pachuca on June 22 before finishing the group stage against RB Salzburg on June 26/27.
When Could Trent Alexander-Arnold Play in La Liga For First Time?
We know that the 2025-26 La Liga season will commence on August 17, but the complete schedule hasn't been released yet. Therefore, the date of Real Madrid's opening fixture remains unknown.
Last year, the La Liga fixtures for 2024-25 were announced on June 18, so we might learn when Alexander-Arnold will make his first domestic appearance in Spain while Madrid is participating in the Club World Cup.