Real Madrid board distance themselves from Trent Alexander-Arnold signing
Real Madrid officials are reportedly distancing themselves from the signing of Trent Alexander-Arnold following the defender’s difficult start to life in the Spanish capital.
The England international has endured a turbulent period since his high-profile free transfer from Liverpool, severely hampered by persistent injury setbacks.
Scrutiny intensified after the 27-year-old was heavily criticised for his defensive role in Celta Vigo’s late equaliser during Friday’s La Liga victory.
A presidential mandate
According to reports in Spain, internal tensions are rapidly rising over the decision to bring the full-back to the Bernabeu.
Sources suggest the acquisition was driven entirely by club president Florentino Perez because of his preference for established Premier League stars.
It is claimed the board finalised the deal without any prior consultation with the managerial staff.
A direct decision by the board without consulting the manager. Spanish publication Sport
This situation has sparked a blame game within Los Blancos, contrasting starkly with the more collaborative arrivals of defensive teammates Alvaro Carreras and Dean Huijsen.
Defensive dilemmas
The reigning European champions are currently facing a genuine crisis on the right flank.
Dani Carvajal’s ongoing fitness issues have compounded the problem, while Federico Valverde remains reluctant to permanently fill the defensive void.
Despite the intense scrutiny from local media, the former Anfield favourite is finally enjoying a consistent run of matches.
He has started the last three fixtures across all competitions since returning to full fitness in early February.
Champions League reunion
An immediate opportunity for redemption awaits as Manchester City travel to Madrid for Wednesday’s Champions League last-16 first leg.
Pep Guardiola’s side visit the Bernabeu before hosting the crucial return fixture at the Etihad Stadium next Tuesday.
Should the Spanish giants progress, they could face Alexander-Arnold’s boyhood club Liverpool in the quarter-finals.
Arne Slot’s current side must first navigate a challenging European tie against Galatasaray to make that reunion possible.
