Real Madrid are currently grappling with a problem in the right-back position following Dani Carvajal’s devastating ACL injury, which has ruled him out for the remainder of the season.
This situation has only heightened speculation about the club’s potential interest in Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold. However, manager Carlo Ancelotti remained tight-lipped when asked about the possibility of signing the 26-year-old England international.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Real Madrid’s Champions League showdown with Liverpool at Anfield, Ancelotti said, “I’m sorry, but I cannot think about Alexander-Arnold. He’s not my player.” The Italian coach, a former Everton manager, couldn’t resist acknowledging his ties to Liverpool’s local rivals, adding, “I consider Liverpool a fantastic club with amazing supporters, and I respect them a lot. But I’m still an Evertonian at heart.”
Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham, one of Real Madrid’s standout midfielders and a close friend of Alexander-Arnold from their time together in the England squad, also addressed questions about the defender’s future. When asked whether he could see Alexander-Arnold joining him in Madrid next season, Bellingham tactfully deflected the speculation.
“I’ll definitely be playing alongside him next season for England—that’s a given,” Bellingham responded. “But as far as his club situation goes, he’s a Liverpool player, and it wouldn’t be right to discuss something that could be misunderstood, especially with a big game tomorrow. He’s a great friend of mine, and I want him to succeed—just not tomorrow night.”
Bellingham’s diplomatic comments come as no surprise given the intense spotlight on Alexander-Arnold, who remains one of Liverpool’s most important players. However, the 20-year-old midfielder took the opportunity to reflect on his own transfer saga earlier this year.
When Bellingham left Borussia Dortmund, a host of elite clubs were vying for his signature, including Liverpool. Yet, their pursuit faltered as the financial demands of the deal would have severely limited the club’s ability to strengthen other areas of the squad.
“It probably wasn’t as close as people think,” Bellingham admitted. “I spoke to a few clubs with Borussia Dortmund’s permission when I decided to move. But when Real Madrid comes calling, it’s impossible not to be captivated. It feels like the whole world shifts when they knock on your door.”
Bellingham emphasized that his decision wasn’t a reflection of other clubs being inadequate. “It’s not that the other teams weren’t good enough,” he clarified. “It’s just that Real Madrid are in a league of their own. They’re on a completely different level.”
While Real Madrid may dream of pairing Alexander-Arnold with Bellingham at the Bernabéu, the defender remains a key figure at Liverpool. For now, both players will focus on their immediate challenge—helping their respective teams shine in one of Europe’s most iconic competitions.
COMMENTS