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Trent Alexander-Arnold handed Real Madrid selection hope by Xabi Alonso
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Xabi Alonso talks about Trent Alexander-Arnold's injury recovery and Real Madrid's goal drought ahead of clash vs. Elche in LaLiga. (1:07)
Xabi Alonso has said Trent Alexander-Arnold is now "in better form" after working hard in training during the international break, giving Real Madrid "more options" at right-back.
Alexander-Arnold was omitted from the England squad by coach Thomas Tuchel this month, after injury limited his involvement so far in his debut LaLiga season, despite rival Dani Carvajal being another long-term absentee.
Alexander-Arnold's contributions this month have been restricted to nine minutes in Madrid's 1-0 Champions League defeat at former club Liverpool on November 4 — when he was booed by fans at Anfield — and seven minutes in a 0-0 draw at Rayo Vallecano five days later.
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Xabi Alonso sends out strong message on Trent Alexander-Arnold ahead of Real Madrid's La Liga match with Elche
Xabi Alonso has offered a robust defence of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s fitness, form, and future at Real Madrid, as the English defender prepares to make only his third league start of the season in Sunday’s away trip to Elche. The 27-year-old’s transfer from Liverpool has not yet ignited in the Spanish capital, with recurring injuries limiting him to brief cameo appearances and only two starts in La Liga.
Alexander-Arnold were limited to just nine minutes in Madrid’s 1-0 Champions League defeat at Anfield, where he was loudly booed by the home crowd, followed by a seven-minute appearance in the goalless draw at Rayo Vallecano. His stuttering start drew criticism in the Spanish press, adding further pressure to a player navigating a major change in club and tactical demands. His limited involvement played a major part in England boss Thomas Tuchel omitting him from the latest national squad. However, Alonso has assured that the right-back is now physically ready and mentally refreshed after two weeks of intensive work during the international break at Valdebebas.
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