Trent Alexander-Arnold has endured another blow to his international ambitions after England manager Thomas Tuchel opted to call up Trevoh Chalobah as a replacement for the injured Tino Livramento, bypassing the Real Madrid defender once again.
Livramento Ruled Out
Livramento sustained a calf injury that will keep him out of the upcoming World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. The full-back was part of Tuchel's original squad alongside Reece James, Djed Spence, Jarell Quansah, and Nico O'Reilly. Alexander-Arnold's omission from the initial 23-man list surprised many, and Tuchel's latest decision to snub him again has been described as a fresh humiliation for the Liverpool academy graduate.
Limited Opportunities Under Tuchel
Alexander-Arnold's international career has been marked by frustration. Despite his success at Liverpool, he often found himself behind Kyle Walker and Kieran Trippier in the pecking order, and only started in midfield during Euro 2024. Under Tuchel, his playing time has been minimal—just a 26-minute cameo against Andorra. His struggles at Real Madrid, including injuries and inconsistent form, have not helped his case.
Tuchel's Concerns
Tuchel has publicly questioned Alexander-Arnold's defensive abilities. In a press conference last year, he stated: "I can see that sometimes he relies heavily on his offensive contributions, and gives not so much emphasis on the defensive discipline and effort. This major impact that he had for Liverpool over so many years, if he wants to have this impact in the English national team, then he has to take the defensive part very seriously." He added that defensive errors could be decisive in tournament football.
In March, Alexander-Arnold appeared to aim a dig at Tuchel with a cryptic Instagram post featuring a picture of himself playing against Atletico Madrid, captioned: "Madrid. Y nada mas" ("Madrid, nothing else").
With Livramento out, Chalobah's inclusion further sidelines Alexander-Arnold, casting doubt on his role in England's World Cup campaign.
