Trent Alexander-Arnold’s first appearance for Real Madrid in the Club World Cup has sparked strong reactions from the Spanish press following a lackluster team performance.
On Wednesday night, Real Madrid began their Club World Cup campaign at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, facing Al Hilal from the Saudi Pro League. The match ended in a surprising 1-1 draw, with goals from Gonzalo Garcia—filling in for the unwell Kylian Mbappe—and ex-Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves.
Alexander-Arnold, newly signed from Liverpool, made his much-anticipated debut, but the Spanish media were quick to criticize his display. Despite Real paying Liverpool £10 million to sign the 26-year-old before his contract officially ended, hoping he would settle in under new manager Xabi Alonso, his first outing didn’t go as planned.
His defensive lapses were noted as key weaknesses in the match, frustrating both fans and analysts. Spanish sports daily Marca remarked on a misjudged pass intended for Vinicius and a failed defensive challenge that preceded an Al Hilal goal—albeit disallowed for offside. They later commented in a live blog: “I don’t know how it looked on TV, but Trent stepping aside during Al Hilal’s counter was shocking.”
Another publication, SPORT, also expressed disappointment, stating: “So far, he’s barely made an impact. Trent Alexander-Arnold is too quick to commit fouls on the right flank.”
Despite the rough start, fans will get another chance to watch the English defender soon, as Real Madrid face Mexican side Pachuca in their next Club World Cup match on Sunday
