Real Madrid will be without Trent Alexander-Arnold for an extended period after the defender sustained a thigh injury during the club’s 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao. The match had given him his first La Liga assist, but his night ended early when he was forced off in the second half. Tests later confirmed that he had suffered “a muscle injury to the front of the thigh” on his left leg, according to a statement released by the club.
How long will Alexander-Arnold be out?
Reports from Spain indicate that the 27-year-old is expected to be sidelined for at least two months. Marca noted that he will miss no fewer than 10 fixtures, including Champions League games against Manchester City, Monaco and Benfica. Benfica are currently coached by former Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, adding another layer of intrigue to the upcoming European schedule. The timing of the injury is particularly challenging for Madrid, as the defender had only recently returned from a hamstring problem earlier in the season.
His absence leaves Carlo Ancelotti with limited options at right-back. Dani Carvajal is also recovering from injury and is not likely to return for another month. With both of Madrid’s primary right-sided defenders unavailable, the coaching staff will be forced to shuffle the squad and rely on depth players to cover a demanding set of fixtures across domestic and European competitions.
Madrid are entering a decisive stretch of the season, and Alexander-Arnold’s injury comes just as he appeared to be finding rhythm in his new environment after leaving Liverpool. His creativity, crossing ability and attacking presence from the right flank have already added a new dimension to Madrid’s play. Losing him again disrupts the momentum he was building and puts added pressure on the rest of the defensive unit.
As Madrid prepares for high-stakes Champions League matches and crucial La Liga fixtures, the club must navigate this period without two of their most experienced right-backs. The coming weeks will test the depth of the squad and could significantly influence the team’s positioning in both competitions.
By Yockshard Enyendi