Trent Alexander-Arnold has been warned that he may not be first choice at Real Madrid next season, with the club closing in on the signing of Inter Milan right-back Denzel Dumfries and the arrival of new manager Jose Mourinho.
The former Liverpool full-back has endured a mixed first campaign at the Bernabeu, struggling with injuries and form, which ultimately led to his omission from Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the upcoming World Cup. Now, with Mourinho set to take over and Dumfries expected to join, Alexander-Arnold faces increased competition.
Real Madrid have triggered Dumfries' £17.3 million release clause, and the Dutch international is poised to sign a four-year deal. Former Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink believes Mourinho's preference for defensively solid full-backs could favour Dumfries, given Alexander-Arnold's attacking strengths.
“If it's Jose Mourinho, it is most likely that his chances are really big because Mourinho likes his defenders to defend first,” Hasselbaink told 10bet. “We all know Trent's quality, but Trent's quality is going forward. So in a sense, if it is Mourinho, I think Dumfries will play quite a bit.”
Alexander-Arnold made 30 appearances for Real Madrid last season, competing with Dani Carvajal for the right-back spot. However, Carvajal's contract has not been renewed, leaving the position open. Gary Neville also expressed concern over Alexander-Arnold's England snub, questioning why managers would leave out such a talented player.
