Alexander-Arnold is about to be 'benched' by a Real Madrid star

21/08/2025 20:38:00 esportapi

Trent Alexander-Arnold was anticipated to solve Real Madrid’s right-back position, yet his first appearance in La Liga brought more worries than confidence, particularly as Dani Carvajal is returning in great form.

Real Madrid fans finally witnessed Trent Alexander-Arnold play his first La Liga match in a 1-0 victory over Osasuna at the Bernabeu. However, instead of excitement, he delivered a performance marked by hesitation and lack of confidence. Alexander-Arnold lacked the sharpness he showed at Liverpool: he hesitated to push forward, failed to provide dangerous crosses, and was almost absent in attack, leading experts to question his suitability for Spanish football.

Not only was he unimpressive offensively, but Arnold’s usual defensive weaknesses were also exposed. He frequently lost his position, giving Osasuna chances to exploit. A misjudgment in the second half nearly cost Real an equalizer. The murmurs from the stands reflected the disappointment. At this form, the risk of losing his spot to Dani Carvajal is very real.

Trent Alexander-Arnold must improve if he wants to keep his starting place

Notably, the atmosphere shifted completely when Carvajal came on. Despite just returning from a serious injury, the veteran defender showed the usual solidity, determination, and passion. A powerful tackle from Carvajal earned enthusiastic applause, reminding everyone why he was once an irreplaceable pillar.

Carvajal also shared after the match: "Today was a very special day. I could feel the fans’ support as soon as I stepped onto the pitch to warm up. After many months, I can say I’m here and feeling more comfortable every day. The coach told me I’m at my best form and I will give my all. So, I’m very happy."

When asked about competing with Arnold for the position, Carvajal didn’t shy away: "I experience competition as I have throughout my career. The more competition, the better I perform. It’s a big challenge that will help both of us become better players."

Dani Carvajal will compete with Alexander-Arnold this season

In fact, Real Madrid signed Alexander-Arnold as a strategic move. The English defender arrived on a free transfer after leaving Liverpool, with a €10 million compensation to ensure his early participation in the FIFA Club World Cup — where Carvajal was not yet fully recovered. But under the intense pressure at Bernabeu, Arnold has yet to show the qualities of a star who provided 92 assists in 345 Liverpool matches.

Against Osasuna, he completed 57 out of 64 passes (89%), but failed all four attempts at long passes — a figure Carvajal outperformed in just 30 minutes (20/22 passes, with 2/3 long passes successful). This comparison further threatens Arnold’s place.

Now, Alexander-Arnold must quickly adapt to Real Madrid’s pace and tactical discipline or risk becoming the "second option" whenever Carvajal is fit. His talent and technique are undeniable, but Bernabeu is not a place where big signings get long adjustment periods.

At 25, Arnold still has the chance to prove himself, but the pressure from an icon like Carvajal makes the battle for a starting spot at Real Madrid more intense than ever.

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