Xabi Alonso has made a daring move just days into his new role as Real Madrid manager, and it could have major implications for Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Real Madrid has reached an agreement with Liverpool to sign Alexander-Arnold ahead of the expiration of his current contract. The Spanish club will pay a transfer fee to the Premier League champions, allowing the England international to participate in the upcoming Club World Cup.
The tournament kicks off for Real Madrid on June 18, when they face Saudi side Al Hilal, followed by a match against Mexico’s Pachuca on June 22. They’ll wrap up the group stage with a game against RB Leipzig on June 27. This schedule sets Alexander-Arnold up for his Real Madrid debut on June 18.
However, his place in the starting lineup is not guaranteed due to a strategic decision made by Alonso. According to Marca, Alonso plans to call up 18-year-old right-back Jesus Fortea, who is seen as a long-term option in the position, despite the high-profile signing of Alexander-Arnold.
Adding to the competition, veteran right-back Dani Carvajal is nearing a return after being out injured since October, further challenging Alexander-Arnold’s spot in the starting eleven.
Nevertheless, Alexander-Arnold is expected to feature in the Club World Cup thanks to the agreement between Real and Liverpool.
In an official announcement, Real Madrid stated:
“Real Madrid C.F. and Liverpool FC have reached an agreement that will tie Trent Alexander-Arnold to our club for the next six seasons, from June 1, 2025, to June 30, 2031.
The 26-year-old English international joins after securing nine titles with Liverpool, including one Champions League, one Club World Cup, one UEFA Super Cup, two Premier League titles, one FA Cup, two League Cups, and one FA Community Shield.
Alexander-Arnold will represent Real Madrid at the Club World Cup in the United States, beginning June 14.”
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