Trent Alexander-Arnold targets Real Madrid success under Jose Mourinho
Trent Alexander-Arnold is determined to establish himself at Real Madrid and secure major trophies under returning manager Jose Mourinho following his omission from England’s World Cup squad.
Mourinho returned to the Bernabeu in June for a second spell in charge.
The Portuguese tactician arrives after a trophyless campaign saw Los Blancos finish second in La Liga behind Barcelona.
Their European ambitions also fell short following a Champions League quarter-final elimination by Bayern Munich.
Adapting to Mourinho’s intense demands
The former Liverpool defender, who relocated to the Spanish capital last year, has expressed deep admiration for his new boss.
“I have always admired the coach. I’ve played against him a couple of times, and it’s a pleasure to work with him and his team,” Alexander-Arnold stated.
The 27-year-old acknowledged the notoriously high standards expected by the illustrious two-time Champions League-winning manager.
“It’s intense. The principles and the level of demand are very high,” he added.
“I’m looking forward to seeing how, the more we get to know each other, the more we learn and the more he can teach us.”
Seizing a starting opportunity
The right-back endured a frustrating debut season in Spain after a series of injuries restricted his playing time.
However, the departure of veteran defender Dani Carvajal in May has cleared a path for the Englishman to secure a permanent starting role.
“I’ve been out of action for a long time, so it’s good to finally be back and to lay a solid foundation for a successful season,” he explained.
Real Madrid will launch their 2026-27 La Liga campaign against Espanyol on 22 August.
Bouncing back from World Cup heartbreak
The upcoming domestic season offers a vital platform for redemption after a significant international setback.
England manager Thomas Tuchel controversially excluded the full-back from his squad for the upcoming World Cup.
The German coach favoured Reece James, Djed Spence, and Tino Livramento for the right-sided defensive positions.
When Livramento subsequently withdrew due to injury, Tuchel overlooked the Madrid star once again, opting instead to call up Trevoh Chalobah.