A new claim has emerged to highlight another challenge for Trent Alexander-Arnold at Real Madrid, as the right-back faces scrutiny surrounding his role and future at the club
06:00, 25 Jan 2026
Trent Alexander-Arnold right-back of Real Madrid
Trent Alexander-Arnold has had a difficult start to life in Spain(Image: Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s time at Real Madrid is facing fresh turbulence, with a new claim highlighting potential setbacks for the defender.
Alexander-Arnold was Real Madrid’s most high-profile signing in the summer of 2025, with Los Blancos securing the England international from Liverpool in a move that made headlines worldwide. The 27-year-old had rejected multiple contract offers from Liverpool to complete the transfer ahead of the Club World Cup.
The right-back has struggled to meet expectations at the Bernabeu, making just 16 appearances so far amid a series of injury setbacks, including a hamstring strain followed by a thigh problem. Currently sidelined, Alexander-Arnold is not expected to return to action before February.
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In addition to Alexander-Arnold, Real Madrid bolstered their squad last summer by signing Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, Alvaro Carreras from Benfica, and Franco Mastantuono from River Plate.
However, according to former Madrid scout Manolo Romero, it has been Mastantuono who has proved to be the standout signing of the season.
Romero praised the 18-year-old Argentine winger while reviewing his performance during Real Madrid’s 6-1 Champions League demolition of AS Monaco.
The youngster opened the scoring in the 51st minute and remained a constant threat down the right flank for Alvaro Arbeloa’s side throughout the match. So far this season, Mastantuono has contributed three goals and one assist in 20 appearances for Real Madrid.
"He was questioned on the previous program (194th episode of El Bar), and it was enough to make you (critics of Mastantuono) tear your hair out," Romero told Cadena SER. “He has been the best signing they’ve made.”
A former Madrid scout named Franco Mastantuono as the signing of the season for Los Blancos
A former Madrid scout named Franco Mastantuono as the signing of the season for Los Blancos(Image: Getty Images)
Arbeloa has reportedly told Alexander-Arnold to consider leaving Real Madrid just seven months after his high-profile move. The England international’s situation has been complicated by internal upheaval, which culminated in Xabi Alonso’s recent dismissal.
Arbeloa, who previously managed the club’s B team, took charge earlier this month and has wasted little time in shaping his vision for the squad.
According to Spanish outlet El Nacional, he held a frank discussion with Alexander-Arnold, advising him to pursue a summer transfer for his own benefit.
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Arbeloa reportedly made it clear that the defender does not fit into Real Madrid’s future plans, emphasizing that the decision is purely football-related.
The report also indicates that Alexander-Arnold’s representatives are actively exploring potential destinations for a move in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Newcastle has reportedly expressed interest in signing the defender, according to a highly speculative Spanish report. The same report also suggests that Manchester City and Bayern Munich are among the clubs keen on securing the Englishman's services.