Xabi Alonso dropped former Liverpool full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold for Real Madrid's La Liga clash against Real Oviedo on Sunday and may have to get used to life on the substitutes' bench
Trent Alexander-Arnold of Real Madrid reacts
Former Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold was dropped by Xabi Alonso for Real Madrid's most recent match
(Image: Getty Images)
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has hinted that Trent Alexander-Arnold may continue to warm the bench after he was dropped for their recent match. The Spanish giants faced Real Oviedo in their second La Liga fixture of the season.
In a surprising move, former Liverpool defender Alexander-Arnold began the game on the sidelines, with seasoned player Dani Carvajal taking his place. He did eventually get some pitch time, but only as an 87th-minute substitute.
When questioned about his decision, Real head coach Alonso suggested that no player is assured of a starting position. He said: "It depends on what we need in terms of the game, the workload and the opposition.
"I haven't made a decision for the next month. I'm going to see how we recover and to make sure that people feel important and ready to start, come off the bench or be able to be in the next game.
"This is important for the stability of the team's performance. Today was a game to show that we're still improving. We want to continue like this, now we'll prepare for the Mallorca game before the break.
"We have twenty-odd players in the squad and I'm going to try to get the best out of all of them. Sometimes you can have a few minutes and be important, today Vini was important. My intention is that everyone contributes to the team. That's going to be the norm."
Whilst Alonso did not mention Alexander-Arnold by name, he heaped praise upon teammate Carvajal. The Real manager hinted that the full-back's current form might be strong enough to earn him a recall to the Spain squad for next summer's World Cup in the USA.
He added: "He'd like to return, but it's the coach's decision. I'm very happy that he's regaining his confidence after such a long injury. At the Club World Cup, he was in the mood, but he needed more time.
"And he still does, but today he played 85 minutes very much in the Carvajal style. Competing well, communicating and taking that leadership role. Bringing a lot of sense to everything. Hopefully he'll go and, if not, he'll go soon."
Real return to action this weekend when they travel to face Mallorca. They have secured victory in both of their opening fixtures this season.