Alexander-Arnold faced a challenging evening as Real Madrid drew 2-2 with Elche on Sunday. The English international’s performance was marred by technical errors, leaving fans and analysts questioning his form. Having missed the recent international break, Alexander-Arnold returned to action but struggled to make an impact, losing a staggering 25 balls throughout the match, according to Opta Jose. This alarming statistic highlights a departure from the high standards he has set during his career, particularly during his time at Liverpool.
From the outset, it was evident that Alexander-Arnold was not at his best. His usual technical prowess was absent, and he failed to contribute effectively to the team’s play. This match marked a new low for the right-back, as he recorded the highest number of ball losses for a field player in any match across all competitions since Vinicius Jr. lost 33 balls against Athletic Club in April 2025. Such figures only add to the pressure on the former Liverpool star as he attempts to regain his confidence on the pitch.
A Glimmer of Hope Amidst Struggles
Despite his disappointing performance against Elche, there are signs that Alexander-Arnold may be on the path to recovery. This match was his third since returning from injury and his second start, indicating that he is gradually finding physical stability. The player made headlines for traveling to Dubai during his time off to train and work on his fitness—an encouraging sign for both him and Real Madrid.
For coach Xabi Alonso, having a fit and performing Alexander-Arnold is crucial given the physical challenges faced by the squad in that position. The depth at right-back has been tested this season, making it imperative for him to rectify his technical mistakes in upcoming matches if he hopes to reclaim his place as a key player in the squad.
Looking Ahead
The road ahead will not be easy for Alexander-Arnold. With intense scrutiny on his recent performances, he must focus on improving his game before Real Madrid’s next encounter. Fans will hope that he can leverage this experience as motivation to bounce back and showcase the skills that made him one of football’s most coveted defenders.
As Real Madrid navigates through a challenging season, questions remain: Can Alexander-Arnold regain his form and help steer the team back into contention? Only time will tell if this setback will serve as a catalyst for improvement or signal deeper issues within his game.
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