Trent Alexander-Arnold isn’t planning to leave Real Madrid in January despite struggling for playing time under manager Jose Mourinho.
The England international joined the Spanish giants from Liverpool in May 2025.
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However, injuries and strong competition for places have made it difficult for the 28-year-old to establish himself as a regular starter.
Alexander-Arnold has started just four times under Mourinho this season – once in the Champions League and three times in La Liga.
He played just one minute in Madrid’s 2-1 El Clasico victory over Barcelona at Spotify Camp Nou after coming on as a substitute in the 94th minute.
The Englishman watched the game from the bench as Kylian Mbappe’s brace led Madrid to victory.
Alexander-Arnold’s late introduction made it clear that he’s not a key part of Mourinho’s plans.
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The Portuguese manager started Federico Valverde at right back and brought on Denzel Dumfries when the Uruguayan midfielder was injured.
Interestingly, Eder Militao has also been deployed at right back, so that’s more competition for Alexander-Arnold in his preferred position.
Despite these difficulties, Spanish football journalist Guillem Balague believes Alexander-Arnold is determined to remain in Madrid and fight for his place.
Balague has dismissed the possibility of a January move, explaining that the defender understands his current situation and believes his opportunity will eventually arrive.
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“No, not in January,” Balague said on talkSPORT.
“What he’s feeling right now is ‘Okay, it’s not my time, but it will be my time, I will prepare for my time’. That’s how he’s taking the whole thing.
“But there are two ahead of him in the same position (Valverde and Dumfries), and in fact, Eder Militao was also used as a right back against Sevilla. So is he fourth choice? He’s certainly third it seems.
“But he’s not down, he’s been told by Mourinho to keep at it, he will have his moment.”
Since joining Madrid, Alexander-Arnold has made 42 appearances across all competitions, starting 31 matches and recording eight assists. However, he has completed 90 minutes just 15 times.
