Trent Alexander-Arnold, the former Liverpool star, was out of action for 6 weeks this season due to a different injury to his left leg. He made four consecutive starts for the first team coached by Xabi Alonso before the latest setback.
How Trent’s absence will affect Real Madrid in a heavyweight clash
Real Madrid will be missing out on Alexander Arnold's creative playmaking from the deep positions, which poses problems for the opposition, especially from a team like Real Madrid, who prefer offensive football through counterattacks. Arnold excels in long balls, which keeps adding pressure to the opposition by utilising the attacking prowess. Arnold’s absence will make the right side vulnerable, especially for players like Jeremy Doku and Phil Foden. Coach Xabi Alonso needs to sit down with his notebook, altering strategies, as Real needs to adapt without a natural right back, as Dani Carvajal is still out injured.
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Replacement options
Federico Valverde is expected to shift from midfield to right back, where he had spent several minutes across seven matches last season, despite preferring central roles. Raul Asensio is a young centre back who had earlier replaced Trent. He is an explosive defender who has the capability of going up to the flanks when required. He offers solid defensive options but lacks creativity in comparison to the Number 12 jersey holder. There can be certain makeshift changes that can result in better results, as Real Madrid can employ Eder Militão by choosing a three-man defense and may reduce the midfield amid the rising concerns for injury.
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The club did not mention how long Trent will be outside the pitch this time. Madrid will be hosting Celta Vigo in La Liga on Sunday, which is three days before the UCL clash against Man City. Xabi Alonso and his team should find an answer to the question of how they will be stopping the attacks of Haaland and co before it's too late.
