Liverpool could leave Alexander-Arnold red-faced after what he’s just said about Real Madrid
Trent Alexander-Arnold has spoken about his controversial summer move from Liverpool to Real Madrid.
Fans were angered when Alexander-Arnold joined Real Madrid in June after allowing his contract at Anfield to run down.
The full-back had been a red throughout his career, but jumped at the chance to join the Spanish giants on a free transfer.
Alexander-Arnold has struggled early on at Real Madrid, and was dropped for Dani Carvajal following his debut for Xabi Alonso’s side.
November will see the defender’s first return to Anfield, with Liverpool drawing Real Madrid in the Champions League group stage.
Trent Alexander-Arnold cites ‘ambition’ as reason for Liverpool exit
Alexander-Arnold failed to make Thomas Tuchel’s latest England squad, indicating his early struggles to adapt to life in Spain.
But the right-back’s ability was never in doubt at Liverpool, and that is why his exit was so painful.
Alexander-Arnold told GQ Spain that the decision to leave was “one of the hardest decisions” of his life.
“Liverpool is my home; it made me who I am,” the 26-year-old explained. “But Madrid felt like the right step, at the right time.
| Trent Alexander-Arnold | Liverpool |
| Appearances | 354 |
| Goals | 23 |
| Assists | 92 |
“It was ambition and a personal desire for change. To challenge myself in a new environment. Of course, Real Madrid’s legacy is undeniable.
“But more than that, what attracted me was my ambition and the desire to test myself in new surroundings. It’s a challenge, but one I welcome.
“Playing at the Bernabeu is sacred. You can feel the weight of the shirt, but that’s what drives you to give it your all.”
Liverpool flames stoked by Trent Alexander-Arnold comments
Alexander-Arnold’s comments will not have done anything to ease the tumultuous atmosphere awaiting him at Anfield in November.
Whilst some fans will read the comments about Liverpool being “home” for the defender, many will have honed in on the lines about the Bernabeu and the word “ambition”.
The Reds were denied the chance to progress past the round of 16 stage of the Champions League last season by the eventual winners, Paris Saint-Germain.
But Arne Slot’s side will be hungrier than ever to recapture European glory this season, with the new additions of Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz placing Liverpool firmly among the favourites.
The visit of Real Madrid will serve as an early test for the Reds’ chances, and they will be keen to show Alexander-Arnold exactly what “ambition” Anfield really can represent.
Sign up for the Liverpool News WhatsApp channel and turn on notifications to have all the latest, breaking Liverpool news sent straight to your phone.