Trent Alexander-Arnold was unveiled as a Real Madrid player on Thursday afternoon. The Englishman, who joined the club this summer from Liverpool, delivered his first speech as a Los Blancos player in perfect Spanish.
He said: "Good afternoon. Thank you President Florentino Perez and the club for this opportunity. This doesn't happen every day. It's a dream come true and I'm very happy and proud to be here. I want to show Real Madrid fans how I play."
"I do realise that I'm signing for Real Madrid and the demands are high but I'm going to give my all for the team and Real Madrid fans. I want to show those fans how I play, I want to win many titles, I want to be a winner here and enjoy playing alongside the best. Hala Madrid!"
Why Trent Has First Name on Back of Shirt
He no longer has his last name
Alexander-Arnold wore the number 66 jersey throughout his whole career at Liverpool. However, La Liga rules state that he is unable to wear the number for Real Madrid, and he will instead don the number 12 jersey for the club.
The 26-year-old has also had his surname on the back of his shirt throughout his career for both club and country. However, he will no longer do so for the Spanish giants. Instead, on the back of his shirt will be his first name.
Alexander-Arnold, who is considered one of the best right-backs in world football, was asked why he has made the switch during his Real Madrid unveiling. He explained: "It's quite an easy explanation for that to be honest. I've always found when I've travelled to Europe, the whole name situation confuses a lot of people as there are three names and it's double-barreled. People call me Arnold, people call me Alexander, call me Alex, call me Trent... there's a lot that goes on.
"I just thought 'let's make it simple, let's make it easy'. Trent on the back and be known as Trent. That's my name so I guess that's what people will call me."
Alexander-Arnold has also changed his handle on Instagram from 'trentarnold66' to 'trent'. The BBC add that the use of a mononym is also seen as a strength in branding and merchandising as it stands out and is easier to remember.
Real Madrid's new star could make his debut on Wednesday June 18 when the Spanish club take on Al-Hilal in their opening 2025 FIFA Club World Cup match.