Spanish media SLAM Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Real Madrid debut

 

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s highly anticipated debut for Real Madrid ended in disappointment, with several Spanish media outlets delivering harsh criticism after his performance in a 1-1 draw against Al Hilal at the FIFA Club World Cup. The former Liverpool right-back played 65 minutes before being replaced by Lucas Vazquez. Despite all the excitement around his transfer, Trent struggled to live up to expectations in his first match in white.

Reports described the 26-year-old as “underwhelming” and noted that he "failed to contribute offensively." SPORT, via Liverpool World, rated his display 5 out of 10, saying he looked uncomfortable with the ball and didn’t create any advantage for his team. Football Espana echoed similar sentiments, pointing out that he didn’t show defensive solidity and failed to make any meaningful impact in attack. Perhaps the most damning evaluation came from AS, who gave him a “blank rating,” the same as Jude Bellingham and Raul Asencio, stating that Trent was brought in to “terrorise the opposition” and “produce immediately” but failed on both fronts. While it’s only his first game, expectations are always sky-high at Real Madrid. The Spanish press has made it clear that more will be demanded from Trent if he wants to become a mainstay in the team. Both his defensive duties and offensive play will be under scrutiny going forward.

Although Trent Alexander-Arnold received sharp criticism after his debut, it’s still very early to make any final judgments. Transitions to a club of Real Madrid’s stature take time, especially with the added pressure of performing in high-stakes matches like the Club World Cup. Unlike many new signings who are eased in during pre-season, Trent was thrust straight into competitive action just weeks after joining for £8.4 million (€10 million). His role under Xabi Alonso’s tactical setup appeared unclear, as Spanish outlets mentioned he was positioned more centrally in possession but looked far from comfortable. Physically, he didn’t seem at peak sharpness either, something that may improve as he settles in and gets more game time. It’s important to remember that even top talents like Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham had slow starts or shaky performances early on in their careers at major clubs. A single underwhelming debut doesn’t define a player’s trajectory especially someone of Trent’s pedigree, who was a key player at Liverpool and England. The bigger picture also includes Real Madrid fans and management understanding the challenges of adapting to new systems and teammates. His next chance to impress could come quickly, with Madrid’s second Club World Cup match against Pachuca scheduled for Sunday. It will be a crucial opportunity for the full-back to bounce back and silence early doubts. If Trent is given time and support to settle, he may yet prove to be a valuable asset to the club. For now, all eyes will be on his response and whether he can rise to the challenge of wearing the white shirt.

Trent’s Real Madrid Debut: 65 Minutes (Taken off) 0 Tackles won 1 Duel Won 12 Possessions Lost 1/5 Accurate Crosses

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