Trent Alexander-Arnold is discovering that life at Real Madrid comes with new challenges.
The former Liverpool star was left on the bench for Real Madrid’s second LaLiga game of the season against Real Oviedo, signaling that a starting spot is far from guaranteed.
Bench Role Against Real Oviedo
On Sunday, Alexander-Arnold and Vinicius Jr were both named among the substitutes, with Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso opting to start club captain Dani Carvajal and Rodrygo instead.
Despite being on the bench, the game ended in a 3-0 victory for Los Blancos, with Kylian Mbappe scoring twice and Vinicius Jr adding a stoppage-time goal after coming on in the 63rd minute.
Alexander-Arnold only made a brief cameo in the 87th minute.
A Contrast to Liverpool Days
This situation is a stark contrast to Alexander-Arnold’s time at Liverpool, where he was almost always first on the teamsheet.
In his final season at Anfield, he made 44 appearances, 37 of them as a starter, cementing his role as a key player in the squad over nine seasons.
Alonso Emphasises Squad Importance
After the match, Alonso stressed that a player’s role—starter or substitute—does not determine their value to the team.
“We have more than 20 players in the squad and I’m going to try to get the best out of all of them,” he said.
“Sometimes they can be starters and be important, or play just a few minutes and be important. I haven’t made any decisions for the next month.
I want people to feel important, ready, to be there for the next game.”
Alonso had previously avoided committing to a first-choice right back, highlighting both Alexander-Arnold and Carvajal as “exceptional” players who will be vital given the busy schedule ahead.
Carvajal’s Return Poses Challenge
Insiders close to Carvajal reportedly believe the 33-year-old will retain his starting spot, presenting a significant challenge for Alexander-Arnold.
Carvajal missed most of the 2024-25 season after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury but returned at the end of last season in top form.
Carvajal had finished fourth in the 2024 Ballon d’Or after winning La Liga, the Spanish Super Cup, and the Champions League with Real Madrid in 2023-24, even scoring in the Champions League final.
He also secured Euro 2024 with Spain, underlining his influence at both club and international level.
Alexander-Arnold’s Move and Debut
Alexander-Arnold joined Real Madrid for a £10million transfer prior to the FIFA Club World Cup, despite having been available on a free transfer after his Liverpool contract expired in June.
To date, he has made seven appearances for Los Blancos, but his LaLiga debut against Osasuna drew criticism from some Real Madrid fans and former Liverpool supporters alike.
As the season progresses, Alexander-Arnold will need to prove himself in training and seize opportunities to earn a regular spot, particularly with Carvajal back at his peak.
