Trent Alexander-Arnold’s high-profile transfer to Madrid earlier this year has quickly turned into a source of turmoil for the player.
The 27-year-old, who departed Liverpool under contentious circumstances, has found himself at the heart of a protracted transfer saga that has attracted much attention.
Despite signing a lucrative long-term contract with Real Madrid, he has only made eight appearances in La Liga this season. He is coping with several injuries while also witnessing the departure of manager Xabi Alonso, who only lasted eight months in the role.
Although he was expected to be a key player, speculation has arisen that new manager Alvaro Arbeloa may not see him in his plans, raising questions about Alexander-Arnold’s future in the team.
Alexander-Arnold’s challenging start in Spain.
While he was involved in a major transfer before joining Madrid, the 27-year-old has struggled to adapt to the top tier of Spanish football.
The promising full-back has started just five La Liga matches this season and has been sidelined due to recurring muscle injuries, not having played since December 3.
Upon his arrival, Alexander-Arnold felt the weight of expectations, leaving Liverpool after turning down multiple contract extension offers.
His dreams of contributing to the English national team in the upcoming summer World Cup seem increasingly elusive as Madrid’s new management evaluates his role, especially after Alonso, who praised him, has now departed.
Despite Real Madrid’s president Florentino Perez overseeing his high-profile move, reports suggest the club is already exploring alternatives for the right-back position, with Manchester United’s Diogo Dalot being considered a potential target amid frustration over Alexander-Arnold’s rocky start.
Excluded: Real Madrid and Bayern Munich have refrained from using Diogo Dalot as his defensive weaknesses and injury problems have affected both clubs’ full-backs.
A bidding war may be on the horizon. 🤑
Details ⤵️ @sportsboomcomhttps://t.co/E3D1sCO68R https://t.co/gzJRhv6fed
— Ekrem Konur (@Ekremkonur) January 29, 2026
Could he consider a switch to Manchester City?
Fans at Anfield expressed their discontent when Alexander-Arnold announced his departure after a 20-year association with Liverpool, and they would likely react similarly if he were to join their historic rivals, Manchester City.
Less than two weeks after Manchester City brought in England’s Marc Guehi, news has surfaced that manager Josep Guardiola is prioritizing the acquisition of a new right-back this summer.
Although Matheus Nunez has been attempted as a temporary solution, it’s evident that City has been struggling to fill the gap left by Kyle Walker’s absence.
Reports indicate that City may target Alexander-Arnold for a surprise summer transfer, given that Rico Luiz has not secured a regular starting position under Guardiola.
While Alexander-Arnold remains focused on his career in Spain, there have been preliminary discussions about a potential move to the Sky Blues.
Manchester City considering swooping in for blockbuster Trent Alexander-Arnold 💣🔥 #MCFC @GraymeBailey ✍️ https://t.co/PVYNZRmolw
— Team Talk (@TEAMtalk) January 25, 2026
Editorial: This situation is crucial for soccer fans as it highlights the pressures that come with high-stakes transfers and the evolving dynamics of player performance and management. It could signal a significant shift in team strategies and player status in both La Liga and the Premier League, impacting how clubs approach their rosters in the upcoming seasons.
