Trent Alexander-Arnold Unwilling to Leave Real Madrid in January Despite Limited Playing Time

Trent Alexander-Arnold is reportedly determined to remain at Real Madrid beyond the January transfer window, despite struggling to secure regular football under José Mourinho. With Liverpool and Chelsea among the clubs linked with the England international, the defender is prepared to fight for his position rather than abandon his Bernabéu ambitions.

Alexander-Arnold Determined to Fight for His Real Madrid Future

Trent Alexander-Arnold is not planning to leave Real Madrid in January, despite growing speculation about his future following a difficult start to the 2026-27 campaign.

The former Liverpool defender has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter since moving to the Spanish giants in May 2025. Injuries and competition for places have limited his opportunities, raising questions about whether he will eventually consider a return to the Premier League.

However, Spanish football journalist Guillem Balague has indicated that the 28-year-old remains committed to succeeding in Madrid.

Speaking to talkSPORT, Balague explained that Alexander-Arnold understands his current position but believes he will eventually get an opportunity to establish himself. His message suggests that the England international is prepared to remain patient rather than force an immediate departure.

Mourinho's Selection Decisions Have Complicated His Progress

One of the biggest challenges facing Alexander-Arnold has been the competition for the right-back position under Mourinho.

The arrival of Denzel Dumfries has increased the competition, while Federico Valverde has also been deployed in the position when the manager has preferred a more defensive approach.

Eder Militão has additionally been used at right-back, making the situation increasingly difficult for the former Liverpool vice-captain.

Alexander-Arnold has reportedly started only four of Real Madrid's 13 matches across all competitions this season, while being left as an unused substitute on six occasions.

Such statistics underline why speculation about his future has intensified. Nevertheless, Mourinho has reportedly encouraged him to continue working and remain ready for his opportunity.

Premier League Clubs Continue to Monitor the Situation

Alexander-Arnold's limited involvement has naturally attracted interest from clubs in England.

Liverpool have been linked with a possible reunion with their former academy graduate, while Chelsea have also been mentioned as potential suitors. Manchester City and Arsenal have appeared in wider transfer speculation surrounding the defender.

A return to Anfield would be particularly significant because Alexander-Arnold spent his entire professional career at Liverpool before moving to Spain. He developed into one of the most creative full-backs in European football during his time at the club.

However, interest from Premier League sides does not necessarily mean a transfer is close. His reported determination to remain at Real Madrid makes a January agreement considerably more difficult.

Mourinho Sends a Message About His Right-Back Options

Mourinho has also played down the prospect of losing players in the position during the winter transfer window.

The Real Madrid manager indicated that he does not expect either Alexander-Arnold or Dumfries to request an exit, pointing to the demands of a long season and the need for sufficient squad depth.

He explained that players must accept competition because injuries, suspensions and fixture congestion will create opportunities for different members of the squad.

Mourinho's comments are important because they suggest that Alexander-Arnold remains part of his broader plans, even if he is not currently among the first names on the team sheet.

The manager's challenge will be to balance the demands of the team with the need to keep players who expect regular involvement motivated.

Injuries and Tactical Questions Have Slowed His Madrid Career

Alexander-Arnold arrived at Real Madrid with a reputation built on his exceptional passing range, crossing ability and creativity from deep positions.

At Liverpool, he regularly influenced matches through his delivery, long-range distribution and ability to create chances from the right side of defence.

His adaptation to Spanish football, however, has not been straightforward. Injuries have interrupted his progress, while tactical decisions have sometimes seen him deployed in midfield rather than his preferred defensive position.

The competition at right-back has also made it difficult to build the consistent run of performances needed to establish himself.

Although his quality remains unquestioned, he must convince Mourinho that his attacking strengths can provide sufficient value without compromising the team's defensive balance.

January Exit Unlikely as Alexander-Arnold Prioritises His Madrid Ambition

For now, Alexander-Arnold appears willing to give his Real Madrid career more time rather than pursue an immediate return to England.

His decision could change if his playing opportunities fail to improve, but leaving midway through the season would represent a significant step after only a relatively short period at the Bernabéu.

Real Madrid also face the challenge of managing a demanding campaign across domestic and European competitions, meaning opportunities could increase as injuries, suspensions and fixture congestion affect the squad.

For Liverpool and Chelsea, the latest developments are a reminder that transfer interest alone will not be enough to secure his signature.

Alexander-Arnold's immediate priority appears to be proving that he still has an important role to play at Real Madrid. Whether Mourinho eventually gives him the consistent opportunities he wants could determine how the defender approaches his future when the summer transfer window arrives.