Trent Alexander-Arnold’s first season at Real Madrid has fallen well short of expectations, with the England defender’s struggles now prompting questions over whether he could return to Liverpool.
The 27-year-old had hoped his move to Real Madrid would represent a significant step forward in his career. Instead, his first campaign in Spain proved a difficult one, with Alexander-Arnold starting only 14 La Liga matches.
He provided four assists during the season but failed to score, a record that underlined the limited impact he was able to make in the Real Madrid side. The results were particularly disappointing for a player who had been expected to make a major impression after joining the Spanish club.
Alexander-Arnold’s problems were compounded by his omission from England’s World Cup squad by manager Thomas Tuchel. Being left out of the national team added to an increasingly difficult period for the defender, who had already struggled to establish himself as a regular starter at Real Madrid.
There was further pressure when Real Madrid signed Denzel Dumfries. The Netherlands international plays in the same position and represents a strong competitor for Alexander-Arnold, creating another obstacle for the Englishman as he looks to secure a more regular role.
The arrival of Dumfries means Alexander-Arnold now faces an even more serious challenge to his position at Real Madrid. After making only 14 starts in La Liga, the prospect of increased competition has intensified uncertainty around his future at the club.
Alexander-Arnold’s ambitions had been high when he made the move to Real Madrid. He had been looking to take a major leap with the Spanish giants, but his first season brought limited starting opportunities, four assists and no goals. His omission from England’s World Cup plans and the signing of Dumfries have since added to the pressure surrounding his situation.
The combination of those developments has led to renewed discussion about Liverpool. The question is not presented as a confirmed decision by Alexander-Arnold, nor is there any indication that a return has been agreed. However, after a season that did not go as planned and with a new rival now competing for his position, the possibility of a comeback has become a subject of attention.
For now, the clearest facts are that Alexander-Arnold’s opening season at Real Madrid was underwhelming, his involvement in La Liga was limited, Thomas Tuchel excluded him from England’s World Cup squad and Denzel Dumfries has joined the club to challenge him for the same position. Those developments have created a fresh threat to his prospects in Madrid and placed his Liverpool future under renewed scrutiny.
