Former Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold has officially begun his journey as a Real Madrid player, sealing a six-year contract with the Spanish champions. The England international was unveiled on Thursday at Valdebebas Sports City, Madrid, where he revealed his decision to wear the number 12 shirt.
The 26-year-old full-back, known for redefining the modern right-back role, joins Real Madrid at a crucial time as the team prepares to compete in the revamped FIFA Club World Cup, set to begin in the United States this Sunday. Real will face Al Hilal in their opening fixture next week.
At his unveiling, an emotional Trent described the move as a “dream come true.”
“This doesn’t happen every day. I’m very happy and proud to be here,” he said. “I want to show the Real Madrid fans how I play. The demands here are high, and I’m ready to give my all to win titles with this great club. Hala Madrid.”
Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, while welcoming the new signing, lauded his decision to join the Spanish giants:
“You’ve chosen Real Madrid because you know this is where you achieve glory. Our supporters will stand by you always. Welcome to your new home.”
Trent also confirmed that his jersey would read “Trent”, not “Alexander-Arnold” a move to simplify recognition abroad. “When I travel, people call me Alexander, Alex, Arnold… Let’s make it simple. Trent that’s my name.”
Despite the excitement surrounding his move, Trent took a moment to reflect on his departure from Liverpool, the club where he spent two decades and became a European and Premier League champion.
“The club gave me the opportunity to achieve all my dreams. I’ll forever be in debt to Liverpool for that,” he said.
“But I felt it was the right moment. I’ve achieved everything I wanted there. Now I’m ready for a new challenge.”
He also revealed that Real Madrid was the only club he would have considered leaving Liverpool for.
“It was never a question of where. It was whether to go or not. If I was to leave Liverpool, it would only be for Real Madrid,” he told reporters.
The England international revealed he has been learning Spanish for months to ease into life in Madrid. He’ll now look to adapt quickly, both on and off the pitch, as he joins a dressing room full of global stars with championship aspirations.
Trent takes over the shirt once worn by Marcelo, and more recently Eduardo Camavinga, signaling the club’s belief in his potential to make a lasting impact.
As Real Madrid chases yet another international trophy at the FIFA Club World Cup, all eyes will be on their newest Galáctico, hoping to deliver magic from the right flank.
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