Trent Alexander-Arnold seeks Real Madrid revival under Jose Mourinho
Trent Alexander-Arnold is determined to ignite his Real Madrid career under newly appointed manager Jose Mourinho following a frustrating, injury-plagued debut season in the Spanish capital.
The 27-year-old arrived at the Bernabeu 14 months ago with huge expectations after ending his long association with Liverpool.
Real Madrid secured the versatile defender for a reported 10m euros (£8.4m) fee, releasing him from his Anfield contract a month early in June 2025.
However, the highly anticipated debut campaign for the English right-back was severely derailed by physical setbacks and managerial upheaval.
Injury struggles and squad rotation
A hamstring issue last September sidelined the former Premier League star for seven weeks before a separate thigh problem in December cost him an additional two months.
These constant interruptions denied him the sustained run of matches required to build momentum and adapt to a completely new league environment.
The set-piece specialist eventually featured in 35 of the club’s 62 matches across all competitions, though he was largely restricted to a rotational role.
He was named in the starting lineup 27 times, sharing the right-sided defensive duties with veteran club legend Dani Carvajal.
Familiar defensive criticisms from his time in England continued to surface in Madrid, even as his exceptional passing range and crossing ability remained highly evident.
A fresh start under Mourinho
After finishing a trophyless season strongly under outgoing managers Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa, the defender is now firmly focused on the future.
Missing out on England’s World Cup squad provided him with the unexpected benefit of a complete pre-season under Mourinho, who returned for a second spell at the helm in June.
The renowned Portuguese tactician has reportedly been highly impressed by the international defender’s work rate, technical values, and recent training performances.
Taking to social media at the end of the previous campaign, the former Liverpool academy graduate promised supporters a significant improvement.
“Madridistas you have welcomed me with open arms. From the first day I arrived you have had my back.”
“It took me a few months to find rhythm and settle in the new environment but I feel completely at home now.”
“I promise we will bring trophies back to this amazing club next season.”
Trent Alexander-Arnold