Trent Alexander-Arnold expressed his sense of responsibility after being officially unveiled as a Real Madrid player on Thursday, saying he feels a “big responsibility” to succeed at the club.
The right-back, who transferred from Liverpool in a deal reportedly structured to accelerate his arrival ahead of the Club World Cup, surprised many by delivering a brief speech in Spanish during his presentation.
“Signing for a club like Real Madrid does not happen every day. It’s a dream come true,” Alexander-Arnold told reporters.
“I am very happy and proud to be here. I’m really looking forward to showing Madrid fans my game, but I’m conscious that playing for Real Madrid is a big responsibility, but I’m ready to give everything.”
A product of Liverpool’s academy system, Alexander-Arnold joined Madrid on a contract running until 2031 after deciding not to extend his stay at Anfield, where his deal was set to expire this summer.
He now becomes part of Real Madrid’s new project under head coach Xabi Alonso, himself a former Liverpool midfielder. The 26-year-old joins the Spanish giants after lifting his second Premier League title, this time under new Liverpool boss Arne Slot.
Looking ahead to his time in Spain, Alexander-Arnold said he hopes to “win a lot of titles and be a champion” with the club, who hold a record 15 European Cup titles.
The England international could make his Real Madrid debut on June 18 against Al-Hilal in Miami, during the Club World Cup opener.
Alexander-Arnold will wear the number 12 shirt at his new club, with ‘Trent’ on the back instead of his surname.
In addition to Alexander-Arnold, Madrid has also added Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth to their ranks. The club failed to secure a major trophy last season under previous manager Carlo Ancelotti.
—AFP
