Trent Alexander-Arnold looks on during a Real Madrid matchplaceholder image
Trent Alexander-Arnold looks on during a Real Madrid match | Getty Images
Real Madrid manager and ex-Liverpool star Alvaro Arbeloa has weighed in on Trent Alexander-Arnold
New Real Madrid manager and former Liverpool full-back Alvaro Arbeloa is ‘not surprised’ Trent Alexander-Arnold has bounced back to form following his recent injury absence.
The England international has had a mixed debut season in Spain following his divisive move from Liverpool last year. Injuries have hampered his time on the pitch and he only recently returned from a muscle problem, which side-lined him for seven La Liga fixtures.
Alexander-Arnold made his first league start since his return on Saturday and he provided an assist in Madrid’s 4-1 over Real Sociedad.
Alvaro Arbeloa delivers verdict on Trent Alexander-Arnold performance
Alexander-Arnold provided one of his typical pinpoint crosses to set-up Gonzalo Garcia’s goal after just five minutes on Valentine’s Day. It was a strong starting appearance for the right-back, who posted on Instagram that it was ‘good to be back’ on the pitch following his injury.
Arbeloa, who replaced Xabi Alonso as the Real Madrid manager, discussed Alexander-Arnold’s performance after the match.
Speaking on the assist he provided, the Spaniard said: “Trent is a top, top player returning to his best level. I'm not surprised, he's so intelligent. He understands the game incredibly well, his quality, his IQ, he is just unbelievable,” via Fabrizio Romano.
Saturday marked only a sixth La Liga start for Alexander-Arnold. The right-back left Liverpool following their Premier League title-winning celebrations, with exit rumours heavily interfering with his season.
His post on social media about being happy to be back in the famous white jersey has played a part in shutting down recent transfer chatter. Rumours in 2026 so far claimed that Real Madrid have instructed Alexander-Arnold to find a new club, while eye-popping links to a Premier League return have also emerged.
TEAMtalk reported a bombshell update last month that Liverpool and Manchester City were both showing interest in Alexander-Arnold but rumours have now gone quiet. It also seems as though the right-back is confirming he is happy where he is.
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