Adapting to a new environment can be challenging, particularly when it involves joining a club in a foreign country where you don`t speak the language. Trent Alexander-Arnold, who spent his entire career at Liverpool since debuting at 17, is now facing this transition following his transfer to Real Madrid in La Liga.
Historically, English players seldom ventured outside the Premier League, but a recent shift sees young talents increasingly moving abroad. Jadon Sancho excelled at Borussia Dortmund, Jude Bellingham shines at Real Madrid, and Harry Kane now leads Bayern Munich. Trent Alexander-Arnold is the most recent example, joining Real Madrid this summer. His transfer was accelerated with a substantial fee paid to Liverpool specifically for him to be available and integrated before the Club World Cup, providing crucial time to adapt. With a focus now turning to competitive fixtures like the upcoming match against Juventus in the round of 16, the emphasis is firmly on winning trophies.
Alexander-Arnold stated, “The period of settling in is now complete. The focus is on advancing, performing at my highest level, contributing my best to the team, and helping them secure as many victories as possible, starting with this tournament.”
Winning is always the objective for Real Madrid, a mindset familiar to Alexander-Arnold from his time at Liverpool, which has only been reinforced since his arrival. Despite signing just before the special FIFA transfer window deadline on June 1st to be eligible for the Club World Cup, Alexander-Arnold has integrated well. Credit is due to the coaching staff for providing dedicated attention to ensure a smooth transition in less than a month.
Alexander-Arnold explained, “The manager communicates with me extensively one-on-one to ensure I grasp everything being said, as other meetings are conducted in Spanish. Both he and the staff go out of their way to make certain I understand every detail of the game plan. Stepping onto the pitch, you realize it`s the same game regardless of the club or if it`s international football – you`re playing an opponent and have a specific task.”
The environment has been welcoming for Alexander-Arnold, helped by the presence of fellow Englishman Jude Bellingham. With a potentially key role in Xabi Alonso`s system, similar to how wing-backs like Jeremie Frimpong have thrived under him, Alexander-Arnold is expected to be crucial in Real Madrid`s bid to regain the La Liga title. Beyond the tactical adaptation on the pitch, there`s also a cultural adjustment required off the pitch in Spain.
He commented, “The language is definitely the biggest hurdle, and it will take some time to fully adjust. I felt confident and comfortable going into matches. It was always going to take a few games to get accustomed to playing alongside new teammates in a different setting with a new coach. That was anticipated, but I`m pleased with how quickly I`ve settled. The other players have been extremely welcoming, making me feel at home and comfortable, allowing me to play my natural game.”
As Real Madrid navigates changes following Carlo Ancelotti`s departure, Alexander-Arnold`s perspective offers insight into why Xabi Alonso achieved success at Bayer Leverkusen. Managing the `Galacticos` presents a unique challenge, but a fundamental aspect remains making players feel comfortable and motivated to give their best. This seems to be happening at Real Madrid, even as young talents like Arda Guler and Gonzalo Garcia are given opportunities.
Overcoming Barcelona to reclaim the La Liga title will require many things to align, but securing silverware this summer would represent a positive step, signaling they are on the correct path.
Dominic Ashworth