Madrid, Spain — Trent Alexander-Arnold has been officially unveiled as a Real Madrid player, completing his high-profile move from Liverpool in a deal reportedly worth £10 million. The England international made an immediate impression at the Bernabéu by delivering his opening remarks in fluent Spanish, revealing he had been studying the language for “a few months.”
The 26-year-old right-back signed a six-year contract with the Spanish giants and is expected to make his debut next week at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, where Real Madrid face Al Hilal in their opening match.
Fluent Spanish Shocks Fans
During the presentation ceremony, Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez introduced Alexander-Arnold as a “legend,” before the former Liverpool vice-captain addressed fans in Spanish.
“Thank you, Florentino Pérez and the club, for this opportunity,” said Alexander-Arnold. “This doesn’t happen every day. It’s a dream come true. I’m very happy and proud to be here.
“I know the demands are high, but I’m ready to give my all. I want to win titles, be a winner here, and enjoy playing alongside the best. Hala Madrid.”
His language skills drew widespread praise, and later, during a press conference held in English, Alexander-Arnold shared that he had been studying Spanish privately for several months in preparation for the move.
“It was important for me to show intent, to come here and get off on the right foot. It’s about starting strong and showing commitment to this journey,” he said.
Reflecting on His Liverpool Farewell
After a 20-year association with Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold admitted the decision to leave his boyhood club was deeply emotional but handled with care and mutual respect.
“Leaving Liverpool was never going to be easy,” he said. “But I’m happy with how everything was handled. The send-off was perfect. I had great conversations with the owners, the manager, and the players. They all wished me well.”
He added that Liverpool’s ownership expressed their appreciation and told him he would “always be welcome back.”
Xabi Alonso, Not Bellingham, Inspired Move
Alexander-Arnold praised new Real Madrid manager and former Liverpool star Xabi Alonso, calling him a “big idol” and expressing excitement to work under the Spanish tactician. Despite public speculation, he downplayed the role of international teammate Jude Bellingham in his transfer.
“We talked, of course,” he said. “But people have overstated it. We discussed Liverpool, we discussed Madrid—just as friends. But this move was about timing, opportunity, and what Real Madrid represents.”
Looking Ahead
Now preparing to join the likes of Bellingham, Vinícius Jr., and Federico Valverde, Alexander-Arnold sees his move to Madrid as the beginning of a bold new chapter.
“I’m lucky and proud to be here. This is Real Madrid—one of the biggest clubs in the world. I want to win, I want to grow, and I want to give everything to this shirt.”
With his language lessons already paying off and his vision firmly set on success in Spain, Alexander-Arnold’s La Liga journey begins with both fanfare and focus.
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