Stuart Pearce Delivers Harsh World Cup Assessment for Trent Alexander-Arnold
Former England international Stuart Pearce has delivered a brutally honest verdict on Trent Alexander-Arnold's fading prospects of making Thomas Tuchel's World Cup squad this summer. The ex-Liverpool defender's difficult start at Real Madrid has raised serious questions about his international future.
Fitness Struggles and Limited Opportunities at Madrid
Alexander-Arnold has endured a torrid opening few months at the Bernabéu since his high-profile move from Liverpool. Persistent fitness problems have restricted the 27-year-old to just eleven appearances for the Spanish giants, with his last outing coming in early December before injury sidelined him.
The full-back's physical setbacks have coincided with his omission from all three England squads this season, creating growing concern about his international prospects. Pearce's assessment suggests these issues have become significant obstacles to World Cup selection.
Pearce's Stark Analysis of England Situation
Speaking to Betway, the former England defender offered a frank perspective on Alexander-Arnold's diminishing chances. "No I don't see him making it into the squad, if truth be known," Pearce stated bluntly. "I'm not sure the manager's a big lover of him, personally."
Pearce highlighted several factors working against the former Liverpool star, including Tuchel's apparent preference for other options. "I think Reece James is a favourite of his and I think he's got other options that he prefers," he explained. "I don't think he's getting enough football at the moment in Madrid to actually really stake a strong claim."
Competition for England's Right-Back Position
The competition for England's right-back slot has intensified during Alexander-Arnold's absence. Alongside Reece James, who previously worked under Tuchel at Chelsea, the German manager has turned to several alternatives:
- Djed Spence has been utilised in that position
- Centre-halves Jarell Quansah and Ezri Konsa have also been deployed there
- Federico Valverde has filled in at right-back for Real Madrid recently
This increased competition, combined with Alexander-Arnold's limited playing time, has created a perfect storm threatening his World Cup ambitions.
Uncertain Future at Real Madrid
Alexander-Arnold's immediate concerns extend beyond international selection to his club future. Spanish publication El Nacional reported that the defender has been told he isn't part of Real Madrid's future vision and should seek a new club this summer.
However, conflicting reports from England suggest this assessment might be premature. Sources indicate Alexander-Arnold is expected to remain at the Bernabéu for the 2026/27 season and potentially beyond, though a future departure cannot be completely dismissed.
Emotional Liverpool Connections and Possible Return
The possibility of a return to Liverpool has naturally emerged in discussions about Alexander-Arnold's future. The defender maintained strong emotional ties upon his departure, telling Liverpool's website: "There's no doubt about it, I'll be back. I'd love one day to be able to bring my kids to Anfield and show them that's where I've played."
Earlier this year, he added in a message to supporters: "Thank you for the support, thank you for the love that I've always felt... I will always love the club, I will always love the people of the club, I will always love the fans and the supporters."
Alexander-Arnold has already returned to Anfield this season when Real Madrid faced Liverpool in the Champions League. Despite being sidelined through injury in preceding weeks, he was included in the matchday squad and received a chilly welcome from home supporters during warm-ups and his ten-minute cameo appearance.
Critical Months Ahead for Career Trajectory
The coming months represent a crucial period for Alexander-Arnold's career at both club and international level. His primary focus must be regaining full fitness and securing regular playing time at Real Madrid to rebuild his case for England selection.
New Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa reportedly has no intention of using Valverde at right-back in the near future, potentially opening opportunities for Alexander-Arnold to reclaim his position. How he responds to this challenge will likely determine both his Madrid future and his World Cup prospects.
With both Liverpool and Real Madrid virtually secured top-eight positions in their respective leagues, the possibility of another European encounter this campaign remains, potentially providing Alexander-Arnold with further opportunities to demonstrate his quality against familiar opposition.
