Trent Alexander-Arnold has opened up about his transition from Liverpool to Real Madrid, describing the experience as "a lot different" as he gears up for his first appearance with the Spanish giants.
The former Liverpool defender, 26, is set to play a part in Real's FIFA Club World Cup opener against Al-Hilal on Wednesday in the United States. Alexander-Arnold made the switch to Spain earlier this month, with Liverpool pocketing £10 million ($13.6 million) from the deal, despite his contract running out in just two weeks.
Jeremie Frimpong has already replaced the right-back at Liverpool. Under the guidance of new manager Xabi Alonso, Alexander-Arnold is settling into his new surroundings.
"It's the same for the rest of the lads, it's a new manager and a new set of staff involved in that sense, we are all starting off on the same foot," he said.
"I can't say enough about the lads and how they made me feel welcome and at home.
"They've all put in a lot of effort, spoken to me, made me feel comfortable, and made sure any questions I had, especially with the translations and things.
"They've helped me a lot with everything."
Trent Alexander-Arnold
Alexander-Arnold has reunited with Jude Bellingham in Madrid (Image: Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Commenting on his training sessions in Miami, Alexander-Arnold remarked: "Hot to start with, but a good session with some good things. High quality. The ball moves very fast.
"Obviously, it's a lot different to what I'm used to in terms of the players and the style of play, but it's good and I'm enjoying the change and I'm enjoying being a part of it.
"It feels really good and I'm happy to be here to be honest."
Speaking about communication with his teammates, Alexander-Arnold pointed out: "I have a decent base level of Spanish, so I can hold a decent conversation with the lads, and likewise, they have a very good understanding of English.
"So, yeah, it's easy to communicate.
"If me or Jude are involved the lads will tend to speak in English we can understand but it's probably, in some ways easier than what I thought it would be and in some ways harder.
"The meetings and tactical talks are all in Spanish, so they take some getting used to, but in terms of day-to-day conversation, it's easy."