Real Madrid star suffers fresh setback after disappointing LaLiga start

Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has been left out of the England squad for 2026 World Cup qualification games against Andorra and Serbia, extending his difficult start to life after leaving Premier League champions Liverpool.

The 26-year-old, whose Liverpool contract expired on June 30, moved to Spain for a small fee to be eligible for the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.

Trent dropped by Real Madrid

However, his time in Madrid has started on a challenging note. Alexander-Arnold was substituted midway through the second half of his league debut against Osasuna on August 19 and was dropped in favor of Dani Carvajal for the next LaLiga fixture against Real Oviedo on August 24.

Reports in Spain have suggested that Trent is already on borrowed time with Los Blancos, though the club has moved to downplay those claims. It does appear, however, that Carvajal will be Xabi Alonso’s first-choice right back in the immediate future, as doubts over the Englishman’s defensive abilities continue.

Alexander-Arnold unable to secure England spot

Alexander-Arnold has now faced further consequences for his stuttering start in Madrid by being omitted from Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for upcoming games against Andorra (September 6) and Serbia (September 9).

Despite being considered one of his country’s most technically gifted players, the former Liverpool star has consistently struggled to secure a regular spot with the Three Lions, for whom he has won 34 caps over seven years.

Known for his superb passing range and vision, Alexander-Arnold started in midfield for England at Euro 2024 but was dropped after ineffective performances in the group stage.

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