Alexander-Arnold Drops to Third-Choice Right-Back at Real

Trent Alexander-Arnold, who arrived for a fee reported as ten million euros-or about 8.3 million-, is now Real Madrid's third-choice right-back. He signed in June 2025 on a contract running to 2031, hoping to replace Dani Carvajal. Denzel Dumfries arrived from Inter, and Mourinho prefers midfielder Fede Valverde on the flank, pushing Trent down the pecking order. Alexander-Arnold has featured in seven of Real's thirteen games, starting four. He added one assist in the 4-0 home victory over Málaga. His minutes have dried up, missing Roma, Sevilla and Leipzig, and only getting stoppage-time in the Clasico. Injuries have hampered him - a hamstring strain in September and a thigh problem in December. Last season he managed 21 La Liga appearances, 14 of them starts, far below expectations. Mourinho admitted dropping him is painful but says the team's needs come first. He also praised Trent's tactical intelligence after using him in central midfield against Inter in September. Former Liverpool star Jamie Carragher called the move a mistake and said he'd welcome a return to Anfield.