Trent Alexander-Arnold benched after late arrival to training
Trent Alexander-Arnold was benched for Real Madrid’s derby clash with Atletico Madrid on Sunday after turning up late to a training session, reports BritPanorama.
The England international had been steadily adapting to life at the Bernabeu, with a standout performance in the Champions League victory over Manchester City serving as a notable highlight. However, his tardiness on the day of the match cost him a place in the starting XI, with veteran Dani Carvajal taking his position at right-back.
Alexander-Arnold was introduced as a substitute for the final 15 minutes of the match, which Real Madrid won 3-2 in a fiercely contested encounter. Vinicius Junior played a pivotal role, scoring twice for the hosts, while Federico Valverde also found the back of the net. Despite Atlético’s efforts, with goals from Ademola Lookman and Nahuel Molina, Real managed to maintain their lead.
The match concluded with tension as Valverde received a late red card, forcing Real Madrid to see out the remaining minutes with ten men. The victory keeps Real four points behind league leaders Barcelona. This benching marks a particularly challenging week for Alexander-Arnold, who was also omitted from Thomas Tuchel’s 35-man England squad announced shortly before the match.
His exclusion from the squad raises concerns about his prospects of making it onto the final roster for the upcoming World Cup, particularly as Tuchel noted the decision was purely “sporting,” opting for alternative right-back options such as Tino Livramento, Jarell Quansah, and Djed Spence.
Reflecting on the quality available in the squad, Tuchel acknowledged Alexander-Arnold’s talent but reiterated the competitive nature of the selection process. Reece James, typically a prominent figure in that position, remains sidelined due to injury, leaving room for other players to vie for a spot on the plane to Qatar.
Since his free transfer from Liverpool last summer, Alexander-Arnold has made 21 appearances for Real Madrid this season, of which 14 have been as a starter, with six of those in the Champions League. His challenges in Spain have been compounded by fitness issues and the complexities of adjusting to a new footballing environment.
For all his potential, the path to the pitch appears increasingly challenging, illustrating the fine margins that can define a player’s career in elite football. As Alexander-Arnold strives to settle into his new surroundings, the spotlight shines brightly, both on his performances and the decisions of the coaching staff.
