English right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold is currently facing a difficult period in his football career after dropping to third choice at Real Madrid during the ongoing season. Since joining the Spanish club in June 2025 from Liverpool, the defender has struggled to secure a regular starting spot under manager Jose Mourinho, raising questions about his long-term future.
A challenging start in La Liga
Alexander-Arnold arrived at Real Madrid with high expectations, hoping to establish himself as the first-choice right-back following the departure of long-serving players. However, the arrival of Dutch international Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan and Mourinho's tactical decision to deploy midfielder Fede Valverde in the defensive line have significantly limited his playing time. Out of thirteen matches played this season, the Englishman has only started four times, contributing just one assist.
Injuries and managerial changes
Several factors have hindered the defender's progress in Madrid, including hamstring and thigh injuries that disrupted his rhythm. Furthermore, the club's turbulent period involving managerial changes from Xabi Alonso to Alvaro Arbeloa, and now Jose Mourinho, required constant adaptation. Despite these obstacles, Mourinho has praised the player's tactical intelligence and versatility, even deploying him briefly in central midfield against Inter Milan.
What lies ahead for the defender
With his contract running until 2031, speculation surrounds the player's potential departure or a possible return to the Premier League, though Mourinho insists that team balance remains his ultimate priority. The upcoming fixtures in La Liga and European competitions will provide crucial answers regarding whether Alexander-Arnold can reclaim his position or if a transfer will materialize.
Photo : Acruz319 — CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
