Alexander-Arnold Reveals Surprising Name Change Ahead of Real Madrid Clash

Trent Alexander-Arnold faces a significant transition period this summer after exchanging the familiarity of Liverpool for the glamour of Madrid.

The 26-year-old defender has completed a permanent transfer to Real Madrid following a remarkable tenure with his hometown club and will now immerse himself in the finest Spanish football competition. He'll be collaborating with new teammates in an unfamiliar league and nation, with the intense expectations of the Santiago Bernabéu constantly looming.

However, Alexander-Arnold is experiencing additional changes beyond his club environment. The full-back will sport a different number in Madrid's iconic white kit, while a modified name will appear above it on his jersey.

Here's the current information regarding Alexander-Arnold's name alteration.

Why Has Trent Alexander-Arnold Changed His Name?

Alexander-Arnold has been required to adopt a new number following his move to Madrid. Due to La Liga regulations requiring first-team squad members to wear numbers between one and 25, the defender cannot retain his signature No.66 jersey—which he's worn since his breakthrough at Liverpool—at his new Spanish destination.

Instead, Alexander-Arnold will take on the No.12 shirt, previously donned by players including Eduardo Camavinga and, most significantly, Marcelo. He'll be aspiring to achieve even a fraction of the success the Brazilian full-back enjoyed during his tenure with Los Blancos.

The name displayed on his jersey will also undergo modification for the 2025–26 season. Rather than his family name 'Alexander-Arnold', the England international has decided to simply use his first name 'Trent'. He has already updated his Instagram handle from '@trentarnold66' to '@trent'.

When questioned about this decision during his introductory press conference, Alexander-Arnold explained it was a "straightforward" matter.

"I've consistently found that when traveling across Europe, the whole 'name' situation creates confusion for many people—three names, hyphenated," he disclosed. "Alexander-Arnold, some call me Arnold, others call me Alexander, some say Alex, others use Trent... there's considerable confusion.

"I simply thought let's make it uncomplicated, let's keep it straightforward. Trent on the back, known as Trent. That's my name and what people will address me as."

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