New Real Madrid signing Trent Alexander-Arnold says he joined the only club he would have ever considered leaving Liverpool for. Speaking at his official presentation on Thursday, the 26-year-old right-back said the move was not taken lightly after spending his entire career at Anfield.
“It was never about where I’d go, but whether I’d leave at all,” said Alexander-Arnold. “If I ever left Liverpool, it was always going to be for Real Madrid. That was the only club for me.”
Though some Liverpool fans initially reacted with disappointment when he confirmed his decision to leave, they gave him a warm send-off on the final day of the Premier League season.
Alexander-Arnold, who joins the 15-time European champions on a deal running until 2031, said the club’s rich history and bright future drew him in.
“Real Madrid’s legacy speaks for itself. I want to be part of that — to contribute to more success alongside this young, exciting team,” he said.
Despite his contract being set to expire this summer, Madrid agreed to a transfer fee to secure his arrival early ahead of the Club World Cup. He could make his debut on June 18 against Al-Hilal in Miami.
The England international also spoke about working under new Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, a former Liverpool midfielder and one of his childhood idols.
“I grew up watching him. That Champions League final in Istanbul was unforgettable,” said Alexander-Arnold. “We’ve spoken a little already. I told him how much he influenced my game — especially his passing. Watching him made me want to train harder and raise my own standards.”
He also expressed excitement about learning from Alonso and said he was ready to play in any position the coach needed — defence or midfield.
“I’ll be a sponge around him,” he said. “He’s new here too, and he’s shown how brilliant he is, both as a player and a manager.”
At Madrid, Alexander-Arnold will wear the number 12 jersey with “Trent” on the back. He said the decision was to avoid confusion when playing in Europe.
“I’ve noticed people often struggle with my surname abroad. Keeping it simple with just ‘Trent’ makes things easier,” he explained.
In his first words as a Madrid player, he surprised fans with a short speech in Spanish.
“Signing for a club like Real Madrid doesn’t happen every day,” he said. “It’s a dream come true. I know playing here comes with great responsibility, but I’m ready to give my all.”
With the Club World Cup in the U.S. around the corner, Trent says he’s ready for the challenge:
“Our goal is to win the tournament and start strong. I’m excited to begin this new chapter.”
Madrid also confirmed the signing of centre-back Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth as part of their squad rebuild under Alonso, following a trophyless season under previous manager Carlo Ancelotti.
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