As Trent Alexander-Arnold celebrates his 27th birthday, his journey at Real Madrid has been anything but smooth. Hampered by a hamstring injury, his role in the team has significantly diminished.
Since joining the ranks of Real Madrid, Trent Alexander-Arnold has faced a series of challenges that have hindered his progress. Despite an initial promising start during the Club World Cup, where he acclimatized well to the team and delivered two assists, injuries have plagued his continuity.
A Promising Start Derailed
During the Club World Cup, Alexander-Arnold was a key player for Real Madrid, starting every match except against Paris Saint-Germain due to a right leg injury. However, this season has taken a different turn. The return of Dani Carvajal, who has come back in peak form after a long absence, has intensified competition for the right-back position.
The statistics are telling. Out of five official matches played this season, Alexander-Arnold has only been on the pitch for 156 minutes out of a possible 450, representing just 34.7% of playing time. As reported by AS, this is indicative of his reduced importance within the squad.
The Road to Recovery
The English defender’s recent hamstring injury has further complicated matters. Having been sidelined for three weeks, his absence was felt during crucial matches. However, there is optimism surrounding his return to training after the international break.
This return could be pivotal for Alexander-Arnold, offering him an opportunity to reclaim his place in the starting lineup and prove his worth amid fierce competition from Carvajal.
The coming weeks will be crucial for both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Real Madrid. As he works towards full fitness, questions remain about whether he can regain his form and secure a regular spot in the team.