English full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold is once again making headlines in the English media following the clash between Manchester City and Liverpool. Targeted by Florentino Pérez as the ideal reinforcement for next season at Real Madrid, the 26-year-old is no longer desired by many Madridistas.
Real Madrid struggled in the first half of the season due to numerous injuries, especially in defence. However, since the successful arrival of Raúl Asensio to cover for Eder Militão’s absence, things have improved for the team. For weeks, the right-back position has been a major topic of discussion, as Lucas Vázquez, who is no longer at his peak, is nearing the end of his journey with the Madrid side. According to reports, Florentino Pérez has almost guaranteed the arrival of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool’s right-back, at the end of the season.
Alexander-Arnold torn apart by Doku at the weekend
Regarded as the perfect modern right-back, the English player is said to be 95% certain to join Madrid. While this transfer looks promising, it is not welcomed by everyone. Indeed, while Alexander-Arnold is known as an excellent player with an exceptional right foot, he remains relatively weak defensively. Similar to Lucas Vázquez, who possesses incredible attacking qualities but struggles defensively, the England international is far from dominant when it comes to defending.
This Sunday, during the Premier League Matchweek 26 showdown between Manchester City and Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium (0-2), Alexander-Arnold endured a nightmare. Despite his team’s victory, the right-back was dribbled past 11 times in this match by the electric Jérémy Doku. Within just five minutes, Doku got past the 26-year-old defender three times. This is a record for the Premier League this season, as no other defender has been dribbled past so many times. In fact, to find a similar record, one must go back to the 2015-16 season when another player suffered such humiliation in a single football match.
On social media, Liverpool’s right-back has been heavily criticised. Whether in England or Spain—where Marca has also covered the topic—Arnold is being mocked for his defensive performances.
A warning for Florentino Pérez’s decision-making
This is terrible news regarding Real Madrid’s top defensive target for the end of the season. At present, Federico Valverde—a midfielder who is much tougher and more tenacious defensively—is expected to play in the big games on the right side to ensure stability. Bringing in a full-back who cannot provide defensive security would be a poor deal that would not benefit the team at all. Several pundits already view Trent John Alexander-Arnold’s potential move to Madrid with scepticism.
Even though the player has exceptional attacking qualities, the real issue lies in his defensive performances. Before making a final decision, Florentino Pérez and the top Madrid executives must carefully assess the risks of this signing.
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