Trent Alexander-Arnold’s first experience of El Clasico didn’t quite work out as he would have wanted, as the former Liverpool defender was an unused substitute.
Real Madrid did, however, take all three points in a feisty affair at the Bernabeu, with Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham on target in the victory over Barcelona. Youngster Fermin Lopez netted the visitors' only goal of the game, while Pedri received a second yellow card in the final stages for a mistimed lunge on Aurelien Tchouameni.
That sparked a melee on the sidelines, with the two benches clashing. Backup goalkeeper Andriy Lunin was booked, while Antonio Rudiger and Raphinha were involved in a heated exchange.
After the full-time whistle, there was also a coming together with the players on the pitch, while tempers flared once again on the sidelines.
Xabi Alonso, celebrating a first Clasico win as head coach, managed to extract his players from the heated exchanges, with Alexander-Arnold among those who celebrated on the pitch.
Sunday’s game was the first time the right-back has been involved in a matchday squad since September 16, when he suffered a hamstring injury in a Champions League victory over Marseille.
Real Madrid players celebrate the win over Barcelona
Alexander celebrates with the Real players at full-time
His selection on the bench against Barcelona suggests the 27-year-old should be part of the Real squad that travels to Liverpool for the Champions League fixture in nine days’ time.
“We're going to take it day by day,” Alonso said on Alexander-Arnold’s fitness levels earlier this week.
“Trent and Carvajal have done some work. Looking ahead to tomorrow [against Juventus], I don't think they'll be ready.”
MADRID, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 16: Trent Alexander-Arnold of Real Madrid CF reacts prior the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Real Madrid C.F. and Olympique de Marseille at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on September 16, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
Alexander-Arnold's start to life at Real has not gone as he hoped (Image: Getty Images)
Alexander-Arnold has started just three games this season for Los Blancos and, even if fully fit, may not be in the team at Anfield.
The ex-Liverpool man will also hope this return to fitness will see him earn a spot in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad once again.
Alexander-Arnold has missed the last two squads and has played in just one of Tuchel’s eight matches in charge.
Meanwhile, Sunday’s win over Barcelona means Real now sits five points clear of its great rivals in La Liga. Marcus Rashford played the full 90 minutes in the Spanish capital.