Trent Alexander-Arnold's move from Liverpool to Real Madrid last summer has not gone as planned. The 27-year-old has faced injuries, loss of form, and disciplinary issues, including being dropped from the starting XI for arriving late to a training session, as reported by Spanish outlet Marca.
According to Marca, Alexander-Arnold 'arrived late to one of the final training sessions of the week,' leading to a 'clear message with a decision focused on discipline and dressing room order' from manager Álvaro Arbeloa. The report added that Arbeloa 'respected the team's code of conduct and made the necessary decision to maintain order within the group.'
Off the pitch, Alexander-Arnold was effectively banned from driving his £130,000 Range Rover to Madrid's training ground due to the club's sponsorship agreement with BMW. Spanish outlet El Motor reported that Real Madrid's partnership with BMW prevents players from driving any other car brand to training, as the German manufacturer provides vehicles to the squad each season.
Alexander-Arnold's return to Anfield in November for a Champions League match was met with jeers from Liverpool fans, who chanted about club icon Steven Gerrard and his successor Conor Bradley. Should Liverpool and Madrid meet in the semi-finals, a similar reception is expected.
Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard expressed surprise at Alexander-Arnold's omission from England's squad for the upcoming international break under new manager Thomas Tuchel. 'I understand the selection, but I just think, 'Is Trent among the best 35 players in this country?' Of course he is,' Gerrard said.
