Trent Alexander-Arnold Joins Real Madrid, Calls It ‘Only Club I’d Leave Liverpool For’
Trent Alexander-Arnold has been officially unveiled as a Real Madrid player, joining from Liverpool in a move he says was “the only one” he ever considered outside Anfield.
At his presentation in Madrid on Thursday, the 26-year-old England international opened up about his emotional decision to leave Liverpool, where he rose through the academy ranks to become a club icon.
“It was never a matter of which club — just whether or not to leave,” said Alexander-Arnold. “If I was ever to leave Liverpool, it would only be for Real Madrid.”
📝 A Move Driven by History and Ambition
Alexander-Arnold, who signed a six-year deal until 2031, joins a star-studded, youthful Real Madrid team under new manager Xabi Alonso, a former Liverpool Champions League winner and one of Trent’s childhood idols.
“Watching him in Istanbul, seeing him play — that shaped my game,” said the defender. “His passing inspired me to work harder. Now I get to learn from him firsthand. I’ll be a sponge around him.”
🧤 Ready for a New Role
Alexander-Arnold, known for his passing range and playmaking abilities from right-back, said he is open to adapting to any position Alonso prefers — including midfield.
“Whether it’s in defence or midfield, I’ll play wherever the team needs me,” he said. “This team has incredible potential. I want to be part of that history.”
He will wear the number 12 shirt with “Trent” on the back to avoid confusion, a choice he says simplifies things when playing abroad.
🏆 Club World Cup Debut Looms
The defender could make his Real Madrid debut against Al-Hilal on June 18 in Miami during the Club World Cup. Madrid, who missed out on silverware last season, are aiming for a strong comeback under Alonso.
“Signing for Real Madrid doesn’t happen every day. It’s a dream come true,” Alexander-Arnold said in Spanish during his presentation.
“I know playing for this club carries great responsibility — I’m ready to give everything.”
Real Madrid also announced the signing of Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth as the squad begins its transformation under Alonso.
