Why a Move to Real Madrid Would Make Sense for Trent Alexander-Arnold
If Trent Alexander-Arnold joins Real Madrid this summer, fair play to him. I was once tempted by a big move to Spain myself.
At 26 and out of contract at the end of the season, he faces a crucial decision—commit his long-term future to Liverpool or take the opportunity to play for Real Madrid, a club that clearly wants him.
If he were to leave Liverpool for another club, people might question the decision. But this is Real Madrid—the biggest club in the world with a storied history. A move there would be a huge opportunity, and I’d completely understand if he felt it was too good to turn down.
Of course, Liverpool is his boyhood club, making the decision more difficult. But as a player, sometimes you have to weigh up what’s best for your future.
The Appeal of Real Madrid
When I handed in a transfer request at Manchester United in 2010, three clubs came in for me—Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Barcelona.
I was seriously considering a move to Spain, and for a couple of days, a deal with Real looked likely. But it was Barcelona that occupied my thoughts the most—imagining how I might fit into a team with Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta, Xavi, and Sergio Busquets.
In the end, I stayed at United, but Barcelona’s team at the time was incredible, and any player would have been tempted.
Real Madrid now boasts a similar star-studded lineup, with players like Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Jr. It’s easy to see why Alexander-Arnold would find the idea of playing alongside them appealing.
He’s been at Liverpool since he was six—nearly 20 years—but very few players remain at one club for their entire career. A fresh challenge in a new country could be a great move for him.
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It’s Not Just About Trophies
Winning trophies was my primary concern when I considered leaving United in 2010. At 25, I was worried about the club’s direction.
That’s not the case for Alexander-Arnold—Liverpool is on the verge of winning the Premier League. He’s already won everything there is to win at the club.
His situation is different from mine when I left my boyhood club, Everton, to join United in 2004. At the time, I didn’t want to leave—I was devastated—but I knew I had to move on to challenge myself and win trophies.
Some Liverpool fans might wonder why Alexander-Arnold would leave when he’s already winning silverware, but sometimes it’s about more than that—it’s about experiencing something new.
A move to Real Madrid wouldn’t just offer him the chance to win more trophies but different ones, while also experiencing a new football culture.
We’ve seen plenty of young English players thrive abroad, and Alexander-Arnold has likely taken note. His friendship with Bellingham could also make the transition smoother.
Will He Stay After All?
I understand why Liverpool fans are upset at the idea of losing him, especially on a free transfer. But that’s as much on Liverpool as it is on Alexander-Arnold.
It’s unclear why his contract has been allowed to run down—whether it’s his decision or the club’s. Liverpool has taken a similar approach with Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and previously with Georginio Wijnaldum and Roberto Firmino.
Interestingly, not much has been said about those players letting their contracts run down—only Alexander-Arnold. Perhaps because he’s a local lad, the reaction has been stronger, which seems a little unfair.
He’s been an incredible servant to Liverpool, and if he wants a new challenge, you can’t begrudge him for it. Of course, as fans, you want to see the best players remain in the Premier League, but if he does go, I’d wish him well.
That said, nothing is signed yet. I know from experience that transfer talks don’t always result in a move.
In 2010, some United fans protested outside my house because they thought I was leaving—but by then, I had already agreed to stay.
So, while speculation is swirling, I wouldn’t be surprised if, after all this, Alexander-Arnold stays at Anfield. A lot can change before a contract is signed—as I know all too well.
