Will Trent Alexander-Arnold's poor peformance vs Man United harm his potential move to Real Madrid?

The right-back is linked with a move to the Spanish club.

Trent Alexander-Arnold has always been known for his creative brilliance for Liverpool, and this season the right-back has shined under new head coach Arne Slot.

However, for the 26-year-old one of the biggest deficiencies is his defensive qualities. The player often gets overpowered by the opposition side. But this season Alexander-Arnold has been at the peak of his performance both as a provider and defender.

Liverpool’s academy player’s future is also in the air as he is yet to extend his contract with the club and Real Madrid are heavily linked with the player. However, his recent sub-par performance against Manchester United could jeopardise the move.

Former United captain Roy Keane told Sky Sports: “There’s talk about him going to Real Madrid, the way he’s defending he’s going to Tranmere Rovers after this. He’s got to do better.

“We talk about how brilliant Trent is going forward, but Trent’s defending today; my goodness it’s like schoolboy stuff.”

Will Alexander-Arnold’s poor showing vs United harm his potential move to Real Madrid?

With his deal expiring this summer, Alexander-Arnold has been silent about his future at Liverpool, and it was suggested that the rumours may have “unnerved” him.

According to reports, the Reds have stepped up their efforts to retain him on better terms. Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid want to sign him in January or on a free transfer at the end of the season.

It was easy to see why Alexander-Arnold’s game was under scrutiny considering that he was the target in both United goals and most of the visitors’ threats.

"He's going to Tranmere Rovers after this" 💬Roy Keane's honest opinion on Trent Alexander-Arnold's defending. pic.twitter.com/vE02Qmnqik

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 5, 2025

Furthermore, even though United’s Diogo Dalot was only dribbled past twice, manager Arne Slot would be concerned about the fact that balls were allowed to enter the box without colliding with Alexander-Arnold.

The performance was pretty much the same from the gifted, attacking right-back when he had the ball. He generated a chance by completing 76.67% of his 60 passes, which was essentially in line with his season average.

Although a challenging day in a highly publicized game brought Alexander-Arnold’s defence under scrutiny once more, his progress in that area since Slot took over was recently praised. He is still regarded as one of the best creators in European football.

However, his poor performance in one game doesn’t define his season with Liverpool as there is a lot to come and he has more to offer going into the campaign.

The main talk would be whether will he sign a new deal or he will join Madrid as a free agent next summer window. Los Blancos will also be evaluating his performance throughout the season as they hope that they are going to sign a top-quality full-back who can make a big impact at the club.

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