Trent Alexander-Arnold faces a difficult spell at Real Madrid, but a return to Liverpool does not appear to be on the cards. The England international has struggled to secure regular playing time, raising questions about his future at the Spanish giants.
Alexander-Arnold left Liverpool in June 2025 after spending 20 years at the club. He joined Real Madrid in a deal worth £10 million before his contract at Anfield expired.
The move offered the right-back a chance to begin a new chapter and compete for major trophies in Spain. However, injuries, coaching changes and strong competition have made it difficult for him to establish himself as a regular starter.
Despite his limited opportunities, Liverpool reportedly have no plans to bring their former academy star back to Anfield. Reports also suggest that Alexander-Arnold remains determined to succeed in Madrid rather than leave during the January transfer window.
Trent Alexander-Arnold Struggles for Minutes at Real Madrid
Alexander-Arnold arrived at Real Madrid with a strong reputation for his passing, crossing and ability to create chances from defence.
His first season brought regular opportunities, although he did not start every match. According to the supplied report, he made 42 appearances across all competitions and started 29 games.
However, his situation has become more difficult during the 2026/27 campaign.
Alexander-Arnold has reportedly started only four of Real Madrid’s first 13 matches in La Liga and the Champions League. He has also completed just one full 90-minute game, during a 4-0 victory over Malaga in late August.
These figures highlight the challenge he faces in securing a regular place in the starting lineup.
Real Madrid have several options across their defensive line. As a result, Alexander-Arnold must compete for his position while adapting to the demands of a new club and playing system.
His technical ability remains an important strength. However, he needs consistent opportunities to show that he can become a key player for the Spanish side.
Why Liverpool Are Not Planning a Reunion
Alexander-Arnold’s limited playing time has sparked speculation about a possible return to Liverpool.
The Merseyside club has faced questions over its right-back position, making the idea of bringing back a familiar player an appealing talking point for some supporters.
Jeremie Frimpong has reportedly struggled to maintain his place in the team. Ronald Araujo has also featured at right-back, adding further competition for the position.
Despite these circumstances, Football Insider reports that Liverpool have no plans to re-sign Alexander-Arnold. The defender is also not understood to be among the club’s current transfer targets.
A return would represent a major change for the player, who left Anfield to pursue a new challenge in Spain.
Liverpool must also consider their broader recruitment plans before making any move. A familiar name alone would not guarantee that a transfer fits the club’s current needs.
For now, the available reports suggest that Liverpool are not preparing a reunion with their former academy graduate.
Alexander-Arnold also remains under contract with Real Madrid for several more years, giving the Spanish club control over his future.
Jose Mourinho Faces a Difficult Selection Decision
Competition for the right-back position has become a major obstacle for Alexander-Arnold.
During Real Madrid’s recent El Clasico victory over Barcelona, he came off the bench late in the match. Madrid won 2-1 at Camp Nou, but Alexander-Arnold once again missed out on a starting role.
Jose Mourinho selected Federico Valverde at right-back instead. Valverde usually plays in midfield, yet his versatility has given the coach another option in defence.
New signing Denzel Dumfries also began the match on the bench. Eder Militao has reportedly played at right-back as well, further increasing the competition for places.
These choices leave Alexander-Arnold with a difficult task. He must convince Mourinho that he offers the best balance of attacking quality and defensive reliability.
The situation does not necessarily mean his career at Real Madrid is over. Coaches often change their selections based on opponents, injuries and tactical needs.
However, regular starts remain important for any player who wants to establish himself at a major club.
Guillem Balague Rules Out a January Exit
Spanish football expert Guillem Balague has played down the prospect of Alexander-Arnold leaving Real Madrid in January 2027.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Balague explained that the defender understands his current position and remains focused on preparing for future opportunities.
“No, not in January. What he feels now is, ‘Okay, this is not my time yet, but my time will come. I will prepare myself for that moment,'” Balague said.
His comments suggest that Alexander-Arnold is willing to remain patient rather than seek an immediate transfer.
Balague also highlighted the competition for the right-back role. Valverde and Dumfries are among the options ahead of him, while Militao can also fill the position when required.
According to Balague, Alexander-Arnold has not lost confidence. Mourinho has reportedly encouraged him to keep working because further opportunities could arrive.
Balague also suggested that the defender faced an unfair situation when he started a previous match in midfield because of an absence elsewhere in the team.
The comments offer a different perspective on the speculation surrounding Alexander-Arnold. Limited playing time may create frustration, but it does not automatically mean that the player wants to leave.
England Place Could Depend on Alexander-Arnold’s Form
Alexander-Arnold also has international ambitions to consider.
Regular football at Real Madrid could strengthen his chances of earning a place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad. However, limited minutes may make it harder for him to remain in contention.
Competition for places in the England team remains strong. Alexander-Arnold must therefore use every opportunity at club level to demonstrate his quality and match fitness.
His passing range and attacking ability can offer England a different option at right-back. Yet he needs regular performances to make a strong case for selection.
Real Madrid’s upcoming fixtures could provide another chance to impress Mourinho. The club is scheduled to face Racing Santander on November 1, according to the supplied report.
Whether Alexander-Arnold starts or comes off the bench, his performance could help shape his position within the squad.
What Happens Next for Trent Alexander-Arnold?
Alexander-Arnold’s immediate priority is to earn more playing time at Real Madrid.
A January departure currently appears unlikely, according to Balague’s comments. Liverpool also reportedly have no plans to bring him back to Anfield.
That leaves the defender with a clear challenge: make the most of his opportunities and prove that he deserves a regular place in Mourinho’s team.
Real Madrid offer the chance to compete for major honours, but the pressure to perform is intense. Alexander-Arnold must respond with strong training performances and consistent displays whenever he plays.
His future remains a subject of discussion, yet there is no confirmed indication that he plans to leave.
For now, the England international appears focused on earning his place in Madrid rather than returning to Liverpool.
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