Trent Alexander-Arnold is reportedly set to join Real Madrid, as earlier reports have suggested. However, would that actually solve Madrid's defensive problems? Trent is known specifically as an attacking right-back—not particularly a defensive one. According to Squawka, Trent is the most dribbled-past defender in the Premier League, having been beaten a record 53 times.
Honestly speaking, I don't think Real Madrid should get Trent if they are actually hoping to use him primarily in a four-man defensive setup.
For me, Real Madrid might have to switch to a five-man defensive setup with three centre-backs to accommodate him. Liverpool typically used a four-man backline, but to be fair, La Liga arguably has better dribblers than the Premier League. I mean, this is the same Trent that left Viní Jr unmarked in the 2022 Champions League final—leading to the goal that handed Madrid the trophy.
With Carlo Ancelotti possibly leaving and Xabi Alonso rumored to be his replacement, a back-five system could be put in place. Alonso has previously said in an interview that he expects everyone—including attackers—to contribute defensively. That approach could help.
Aside from that, Xabi could adopt a three-man defensive setup and push Trent forward to play as a right midfielder—similar to how Jeremie Frimpong is used at Bayer Leverkusen. Still, even with that, I doubt a three-man defense would be enough to stop players like Lamine Yamal.
To play a five-man defensive system effectively, Madrid need new centre-backs. The club cannot continue relying on Éder Militão and Antonio Rüdiger, whose legs are already cooked. Their leg situation is however due to the club refusing to sign back up and constantly playing them. On top of that, Ferland Mendy at left-back is constantly injured and needs a replacement. Fede Valverde, who is naturally a central midfielder, has been filling in at left-back—but while he actually has some defensive skills, relying on a CM to play LB long term isn’t sustainable.
Even if Xabi Alonso doesn’t eventually come to Real Madrid, my argument about needing defensive cover for Trent still stands.
Hopefully, Florentino Pérez will heed my unsolicited advice and head into transfer market. Let’s not forget—Madrid's shaky defense has been one of the major reasons behind their struggles this season. To make matters worse, many of their attackers don’t even track back to help defensively. Hopefully, all that changes next season.
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