Trent Alexander-Arnold admitted that making his Real Madrid debut is "something every player dreams of."
But the team's inability to secure a win in the Club World Cup left him feeling "some disappointment." The former Liverpool right-back recently made the switch as his contract at Anfield came to an end. He now finds himself playing alongside friend Jude Bellingham, as well as Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo.
Madrid's first match in FIFA's Club World Cup was less than impressive, as the Spanish team was held to a draw by Saudi outfit Al-Hilal. New manager Xabi Alonso is still familiarizing himself with his squad, but Madrid was heavily favored to defeat the Middle Eastern side.
Gonzalo Garcia's opening goal was negated by a penalty from Ruben Neves, while Dean Huijsen, formerly of Bournemouth, was another ex-Premier League star to make his debut for the Spanish team.
Alexander-Arnold acknowledges the pressure that comes with the expectation for Madrid to win "every game you play in" which undoubtedly tainted his first appearance.
However, he expressed gratitude toward his new club and teammates for their early support following his transfer.
Alexander-Arnold struggled on his Real Madrid debut
Alexander-Arnold struggled on his Real Madrid debut (Image: Getty Images)
He said: "Incredible day to have made my debut for Real Madrid. It's something almost every player dreams of so to be able to achieve it is huge for me.
"There's some disappointment not to have won the game, but it's the mentality you need to have as a Real player is to want and expect to win every game you've played in.
"I've felt the support from the moment I signed the club. Absolutely sensational. The fan base is truly global all around the world, and you feel it every day.
"I've been learning Spanish a couple of months. I want to adapt and give myself the best start possible.
"It's important to show the intent that I want to embrace the culture and adapt as best as possible. That was important for me to do so."
After a trophyless season last term Alonso, who replaced the iconic Carlo Ancelotti, maintains that the changes he's looking for won't happen immediately.
"I knew it would take time," he said. "There are things we have to change. We'll have to correct them, and we'll keep doing that. Everything takes time, we've had nine days, and some players have had just three training sessions.
"It's demanding, we're in a competition, but we want to learn, and what we want to do will take time."