Trent Alexander-Arnold claimed he has only been learning Spanish for "a couple of months," following his recent Real Madrid unveiling.
The 26-year-old, who was presented as a Real star last Thursday following his departure from Liverpool, spoke Spanish in the opening section of the media event.
“Thank you so much to President Florentino Perez and Real Madrid for this opportunity," he said in tentative, but impressive, Spanish. “Signing for a club like Real Madrid doesn't happen every day. It's a dream come true. I'm very happy and proud to be here. I'm eager to show the club and the fans what I can do.”
Alexander-Arnold then answered questions in English during a subsequent press conference, indicating that his Spanish is not that advanced yet, but his decision to speak in the language has irked a certain section of Liverpool supporters.
In the eyes of some, his level of Spanish indicates that he has been learning the language for a prolonged period, which is at odds with Alexander-Arnold’s claims that he spent months agonizing over his future. For some, it backs up a belief that Alexander-Arnold’s personal ambitions have long outweighed the loyalty to his boyhood club.
But the England international played down that sense after his Real debut, which came in a 1-1 draw against Al-Hilal on Wednesday. Alexander-Arnold played 65 minutes before he was replaced in what was a disjointed performance in Xabi Alonso’s first match in the dugout.
Trent Alexander-Arnold in action for Real Madrid against Al-Hilal
Alexander-Arnold in action for Real Madrid against Al-Hilal (Image: Getty Images)
Speaking in a post-match interview, Alexander-Arnold requested to speak English, adding: “After playing a game, it is hard to concentrate that much to speak Spanish.”
When quizzed on how long he has been learning Spanish, the defender replied: “A couple of months. It was something important that I had to do.
“It is important to show the intent that I want to embrace the culture and adapt as best as possible,” he told DAZN.
It was a claim John Obi Mikel wasn't buying in the DAZN studio. "He spent a couple of months learning Spanish, but I don't agree with that," said the former Chelsea midfielder. "Maybe a year."
Alexander-Arnold's Spanish speaking has been the subject of much debate
Alexander-Arnold's Spanish speaking has been the subject of much debate (Image: Getty Images)
Alexander-Arnold’s performance drew much criticism and mockery from Liverpool fans online, especially with Al-Hilal’s left winger, Salem Al-Dawsari, enjoying an impressive performance.
On several occasions, he skipped down the line, capitalizing on the space Alexander-Arnold afforded him. But in truth, the reaction from certain sections of social media was overblown.
In an underpar team display, the former Liverpool right-back was far from the worst culprit. In fact, he played an important role in the build-up to Gonzalo Garcia’s opening goal and was solid in possession.
The same can’t be said of his Real defensive teammates, with fellow debutant Dean Huijsen sloppy on the ball, while left-back Fran Garcia conceded a needless penalty.
Next up for Alexander-Arnold and Los Blancos is a clash with Mexican side Pachuca on Sunday.