Amid Defensive Concerns, Alexander-Arnold and Real Madrid Appear to Be an Ideal Fit

Trent Alexander-Arnold has revealed that leaving Liverpool was the “most challenging decision” of his life, but making the switch to Real Madrid is generally regarded as one of the easiest choices a player can make.

The 15-time Champions League champions stand as the most successful club in the world, and signing with them is often viewed as reaching the zenith of one’s football career.

Back in 2003, Madrid secured the signing of David Beckham from Manchester United—a player whom some have compared Alexander-Arnold to, citing his ability to pass and cross effectively.

“It’s not that other teams are lacking, it’s simply that Real Madrid is the best,” stated England international Jude Bellingham after his transfer from Borussia Dortmund in 2023.

The presence of Bellingham, a fellow countryman and close friend, certainly heightened Madrid’s allure for Alexander-Arnold, whose highly-anticipated transfer was officially confirmed on Friday.

Although he achieved greatness at Anfield, the prospect of consistently winning silverware was an enticing factor in his decision to join Los Blancos, prompting him to take the leap from his boyhood club.

From Madrid’s standpoint, acquiring Alexander-Arnold on a six-year deal was an evident move to bolster their squad.

With Dani Carvajal, aged 33, out for a significant portion of the season due to injury, the right-back position has been a headache for the team. Both Fede Valverde and the departing Lucas Vazquez have occupied that role, despite it not being their primary position.

Cedric will return next season, but after a serious knee injury and at his age, it remains uncertain if he’ll be able to perform at the level expected of him.

At just 26, Alexander-Arnold is anticipated to be a pivotal part of the Madrid squad for years to come.

The defender’s signing dovetails with Madrid’s recent strategy of utilising their illustrious status to attract ‘Galactico’ level talent at the end of contracts.

The acquisition of French striker Kylian Mbappe from Paris Saint-Germain last summer serves as a prime example, alongside Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba, who also arrived without transfer fees.

With his exceptional attacking prowess, Alexander-Arnold is sure to win over Madrid’s demanding fanbase, who have a history of favouring full-backs known for their flair, such as Marcelo and Roberto Carlos.

A set-piece specialist, he has also been employed in midfield for England, an area where Madrid has struggled since Toni Kroos’ exit last summer.

Adding to his allure is Alexander-Arnold’s connection to Liverpool’s remarkable 4-0 victory over Madrid’s fiercest rivals, Barcelona, in the 2019 Champions League semi-finals.

The defender was pivotal in creating his team’s crucial fourth goal after suffering a 3-0 defeat away, taking a quick corner to catch Barcelona’s defence off-guard, allowing Divock Origi to score.

“In those big moments, I felt that’s where I needed to be,” Alexander-Arnold shared with FourFourTwo.

“Games like that naturally require you to elevate your performance, think on your feet, and deliver flashes of brilliance—I managed to pull one off.”

Defensive Concerns

Historically, British players have faced challenges in adjusting to life in the Spanish capital.

Although Welshman Gareth Bale experienced significant success at Madrid, he still ended up being unfairly blamed at times. Similarly, England internationals Michael Owen and Jonathan Woodgate struggled to truly find their place within the team.

On the other hand, Bellingham has made an impressive impact, securing Madrid a double of La Liga and Champions League titles in his debut campaign, and could help ease Alexander-Arnold’s transition.

The primary concerns regarding Alexander-Arnold’s move revolve around his defensive skills.

At times during his tenure with Liverpool and the England side, he has faced criticism for lapses in focus, allowing opposing wingers to slip past him unnoticed.

This season, Madrid’s defensive line has already come under scrutiny, contributing to their disappointment of ending the campaign without a major trophy.

If new coach Xabi Alonso opts for the 3-4-3 formation he favoured at Bayer Leverkusen, it could play to Alexander-Arnold’s strengths in a right wing-back capacity.

“His special ability with the ball means the spotlight is on him to create magic on the pitch,” Liverpool coach Arne Slot described in September.

“For him, it’s less about whether he can perform those acts of brilliance, and more about whether he can maintain 100 per cent concentration consistently.”

This wouldn’t be the first instance of Madrid signing a player based on high hopes for their potential rather than a cautious approach to team-building.

However, in Alexander-Arnold’s situation, there are numerous indications that this partnership could be mutually beneficial for both the club and the player.