From Liverpool Hero to Madrid Bench? Trent's Struggles Raise January Exit Questions

Trent Alexander-Arnold's move to Real Madrid was expected to mark the beginning of a new chapter in his career. However, the England international has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter under the new head coach, José Murihno, raising serious doubts about his long-term future at the Santiago Bernabéu.

The 28-year-old moved to Spain after a successful stint with Liverpool, helping them win the Premier League and Champions League. He joined Madrid on a free transfer and was expected to become a long-term successor to Dani Carvajal at right-back, but injuries, competition for the right-back spot, and  José  Murinho's  tactical decisions have restricted his opportunities.

A difficult start to life in Madrid

Alexander-Arnold's debut season didn't go as planned. He made 21 appearances during the 2025-26  Laliga campaign and only 9 in the Champions League due to injury and finished the season with 0 goals and 5 assists.

His situation has become more complicated this season, as he has only featured in eight of Real Madrid's first 16 matches, playing a total of 435 matches, and only provided 1 assist.

The competition for the right backside has also increased as Denzel Dumfries arrived from Inter Milan on a free transfer during the summer transfer window. The real competition for the Englishman is not Dumfries, but it is Federico Valverde, who is delivering an astonishing performance in the right back position, prompting Murillo to start him ahead of Trent.

Valvarde ahead in picking order

Valvarde is naturally a midfielder, but his physical qualities, defensive work rate, and ability to cover large spaces have made him a reliable option at the right-back. His presence on the field gives Madrid higher flexibility during the possession. Rather than relying on a traditional attacking full back like Trent

To provide width and link up with the wingers, Murinho can use Valvarde to support the midfield, help during the defensive transition, and make forward runs. Unlike Trent, whose biggest strengths are his passing range, crossing, and creating chances during the possession, Valvarde offers greater physicality and defensive coverage.

On Match Day 12 of La Liga, where Real Madrid faced Valencia, Valvarde started ahead of Trent despite being fit and also scored in Madrid's 3-0 victory, while Alexander Arnold watched from the bench.  For Trent, the challenge is demonstrating that his attacking qualities can provide enough value to justify a regular starting position.

A Transfer in January? 

Trent's reduced playing time has attracted transfer speculation, with Premier League clubs like Chelsea and also his former club Liverpool looking to sign him in the January window. A return to England would be an obvious storyline, given his history with Liverpool.

However, a January departure is unlikely according to the Spanish journalist Guillem Balague, as Trent is not planning to leave Madrid and remains determined to fight for his place. Murinho has also indicated that he does not expect the defender to request a transfer. With a long-term contract running until 2031, Real Madrid does not have any pressure to sell him.

What now for Trent?

Trent's main goal now is to convince Murinho to earn his place back in the starting XI and prove that he still possesses qualities that could make him a decisive player for Madrid. His passing range, creativity, and link-up play with the midfield offer something no defender can offer.

For now, his immediate priority will be to regain a regular place in the starting XI. If his situation does not improve, questions about his future could become increasingly difficult to ignore.