Trent Alexander-Arnold could be the main beneficiary of Xabi Alonso’s sudden Real Madrid exit, for a couple of reasons.
It’s hard to admit, but Alexander-Arnold’s exit has affected Liverpool.
Open-play creativity has been a problem area for Arne Slot’s side this season, too often failing to unlock low blocks and playing out frustrating draws.
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It hasn’t been a dream start for the right-back in Madrid. Injuries have prevented him from hitting the heights he reached at Anfield, but this latest development at the Bernabeu could be a turning point.
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Jonjo Shelvey on Luis Surez
Jonjo Shelvey on Luis Surez
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Trent Alexander-Arnold will get on with Alvaro Arbeloa
Former Red Alvaro Arbeloa has been brought up from the youth system to serve as interim manager while the search for a permanent replacement continues.
Arbeloa played as a right-back for both Liverpool and Real Madrid.
He employs a 4-3-3 high-pressing system for the Under-21s in the Spanish capital — familiar territory for the Scouser.
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Alexander-Arnold has made just 12 starts for his new club this season, and Liverpool fans know well that he has far more to offer. He will know Arbeloa, and it could be that his profile is more tailored to under new management.
Trent Alexander-Arnold of Real Madrid warms up during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between Liverpool FC and Real Madrid C.F. at Anfield
Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images
It would help him integrate better at Madrid to have a former Liverpool man in the dugout who followed the same career path.
He’s a unique right-back who needs to be used in a certain way and Arbeloa could be the one to unlock him in a white shirt. On top of that, the favourite to fill the vacancy will also know how to get the most out of the 27-year-old.
Jurgen Klopp would be even better for Alexander-Arnold
Madrid are seriously considering Jurgen Klopp to take over from Alonso.
That would be great news for Alexander-Arnold considering the existing relationship that has been key to most of the success he has had in his playing career.
Klopp understood how to use his right-back while at Anfield, and it would be very interesting to see if he could get the same output for the Spanish giants.
How weird would it be to see Jurgen Klopp manage another team? At least Alonso can come to Liverpool…
Jurgen Klopp attends Ligue 1 game between Paris FC and Metz
Credit: Antonio Borga/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
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Seeing the former Liverpool boss go to Madrid would be almost as painful as seeing Alexander-Arnold go last summer, but it’s a situation that could prove beneficial for the both of them.
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