Trent Alexander-Arnold: Madrid Confidence, City Talk? Arbeloa Speaks Out
23 January 2026
Late rumors have circulated about Trent Alexander-Arnold's alleged failed stint with Real Madrid.
Inside Real Madrid, there is full confidence in the English star as he nears a return to action following his injury, according to a fresh Spanish press report.
The Spanish newspaper AS reported on Friday that Álvaro Arbeloa, Real Madrid's coach, made direct contact with the player to check his fitness and discuss the details of his recovery, while offering full support and reaffirming the coaching staff's belief in his abilities.
The Madrid daily noted Arbeloa is waiting for Arnold to return as soon as possible so the club can begin relying on him, and that the board sees signing the English right-back as a long-term project. This view has remained unchanged since his move from Liverpool.
The report also denied rumors of a meeting in which the coach would tell the player not to count on him and urged him to seek another club; it stated that the discussion was strictly about monitoring recovery and providing support.
It added that previous reports about a potential return to the Premier League via Manchester City were not accurate; Arnold is fully focused on succeeding with Real Madrid.
The process of adapting to Madrid life is going well, with no reported issues, as he concentrates on overcoming the December injury suffered against Athletic Bilbao, in the early days of December, in preparation for a near return.
Punchline 1: If Arnold signs for City, the ball might finally get GPS—Goal Positioning System… finally a predictable pass!
Punchline 2: For now, Real Madrid just wants him healthy; the transfer rumors are faster than his recovery—go figure.
