Trent Alexander-Arnold’s contract at Anfield was set to expire on June 30th and Liverpool accepted a fee from Real Madrid to release him for the Club World Cup.
On Wednesday, the right-back played his first match for Real Madrid against Al-Hilal. He was on the pitch for 65 minutes and the Club World Cup game ended in a 1-1 draw.
AS weren’t pleased with the 26-year-old’s display and gave him a blank rating. They also urged him to step up to justify the money Real Madrid paid to Liverpool to advance his arrival.
After making his debut for Real Madrid, the former Liverpool man spoke to reporters in the mixed zone and Marca have relayed his comments.
The fullback was pleased to make his debut but wasn’t happy with the result.
“It was a very proud moment for me. I’m very happy to have made my debut. It’s something most, if not all, players dream of all their lives,” he said.
“I’m incredibly proud of the achievement, but of course there’s some disappointment [with the result] with the mentality that comes with being a Real Madrid player. You want and expect to win every game, but of course, with a new coach, new players, and new ideas, there are positives to take away, especially in the second half, and the foundations have been laid to go and win the next game.”
The former Liverpool man also explained it was difficult for him to adjust to the weather in Miami.
“Yes, it was very difficult for me [the heat]. It’s very different from England,” Alexander-Arnold explained.
The England international graduated from the Merseyside club’s academy and was part of their first team for close to nine years.
When asked about his decision to leave Liverpool for Real Madrid, the player said he made the right choice.
“It’s my first time changing clubs, so I didn’t know what to expect. I had no expectations. It’s a big change and it’s different, but I’m enjoying every minute, and in my mind and in my heart, I know I’ve made the right decision for me,” he added.