Image Credits: Imago Images
England international Trent Alexander-Arnold has lifted the lid on his slow start at Real Madrid following last summer’s move from Liverpool.
The 27-year-old transformed the perception of the right-back role during his time at Anfield, forming a prolific partnership with Mohamed Salah as the club won the Premier League, Champions League and several other major honours.
Alexander-Arnold, who was instrumental in Liverpool’s success in recent years, has struggled with injuries during his first season in Spain, limiting his early impact.
There was recent speculation linking the England defender with a possible exit at the end of the season, although those reports have since been dismissed.
After regaining fitness, Alexander-Arnold has worked his way back into the side under manager Alvaro Arbeloa and started in Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Manchester City.
Real Madrid secured a commanding 3-0 victory at the Bernabeu, with midfielder Federico Valverde scoring a first-half hat-trick. Vinícius Junior’s missed second-half penalty was the only disappointment ahead of next week’s second leg in Manchester.
Madrid have struggled for consistency since Alvaro Arbeloa took charge in January. Four defeats – to Albacete in the Copa del Rey, Benfica in the Champions League league phase, and consecutive La Liga losses to Osasuna and Getafe — have raised the possibility of the 15-time European champions finishing the season without a trophy.
Speaking to CBS Sports, Alexander-Arnold said: “My start at Real Madrid? Well, a couple of injuries, but since I found my fitness, I’m loving it here, and I’ve loved it since the first minute. It’s a dream come true. I’m trying to adapt the best I can.
He added: “It’s only half-time. If you are celebrating at half-time and thinking the game is done, your mindset is completely wrong.
“The whole club knows this isn’t finished. We have seen crazy games between these two clubs before, so we can’t rule out anything. We don’t take anything for granted and will go to the Etihad and try to win there as well.”
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