Moving to a new country and team presents challenges, especially for a player like Trent Alexander-Arnold, who spent his entire career at Liverpool since his debut at 17. He`s now navigating this transition after joining Real Madrid in La Liga.
While English players traditionally stayed in the Premier League, a growing number of young talents are venturing abroad, following the path of players like Jadon Sancho at Dortmund, Jude Bellingham at Real Madrid, and Harry Kane at Bayern Munich. Alexander-Arnold is the latest to make such a move, joining Real Madrid this summer. The transfer, reportedly costing over $11 million, was expedited specifically to integrate him before the Club World Cup, giving him crucial time to adapt. With Real Madrid`s round of 16 match against Juventus approaching on Tuesday, the focus is now shifting towards competing for silverware.
Alexander-Arnold stated, “The phase of settling in is complete. Now it`s about pushing forward, achieving my best individual performance, contributing fully to the team, and helping us win as many matches as possible, starting with this tournament.”
Real Madrid`s inherent winning culture, while familiar from his Liverpool days, is even more pronounced here. Despite only arriving on June 1st through a special FIFA transfer window designed for Club World Cup participants, Alexander-Arnold feels he is integrating well. He credits the coaching staff for their dedicated efforts to facilitate a smooth adjustment in less than a month.
Alexander-Arnold explained the staff`s support: “The manager communicates with me frequently on a one-on-one basis to ensure I grasp everything being said, as other team meetings are conducted in Spanish. Both he and the staff go the extra mile to make sure I understand the entire tactical plan.” He added, “When you step onto the pitch, you realize the fundamental task remains the same regardless of the club or international setting – you`re playing against an opponent with a specific job to perform.”
The environment has been welcoming, aided by the presence of fellow Englishman Jude Bellingham. Alexander-Arnold is expected to play a significant role in Xabi Alonso`s tactical setup, potentially mirroring the impact seen from wing-backs like Jeremie Frimpong under Alonso. This will be crucial for Real Madrid`s bid to reclaim the La Liga title. Beyond the tactical adjustments on the field, adapting to the cultural differences off the field in Spain is also part of the move.
“Language poses the biggest hurdle, and it will naturally take time to fully adjust,” Alexander-Arnold commented. “However, I felt confident and comfortable entering the game. Getting accustomed to playing alongside new teammates in a new setting with a new coach was always going to require a few matches. But I`m pleased with my settling-in process. The teammates have been incredibly welcoming, making me feel at home and at ease, which allows me to play my natural game.”
Given the significant changes at Real Madrid following Carlo Ancelotti`s departure and Xabi Alonso`s arrival, Alexander-Arnold`s positive experience offers insight into Alonso`s management philosophy – fostering a sense of belonging that encourages players to give their maximum effort. This approach is vital for Real Madrid, particularly as young talents like Arda Guler and Gonzalo Garcia are being given opportunities to prove themselves.
Reclaiming the La Liga championship from Barcelona will be a significant challenge requiring many things to align perfectly. However, securing silverware like the Club World Cup this summer would serve as a positive indication that the team is progressing in the right direction.
