Trent Alexander-Arnold is finding it increasingly difficult to secure regular playing time at Real Madrid, while Jose Mourinho has praised Federico Valverde, who is strengthening his case for a place in the starting line-up.
Real Madrid defeated Sevilla 4-1 in La Liga, with Kylian Mbappe scoring twice to reduce the gap to Barcelona to six points ahead of the upcoming El Clasico between the two rivals.
However, attention after the match also focused on Alexander-Arnold’s situation, as the England international continues to struggle to establish himself as a regular member of the Madrid starting XI.
Valverde impressed against Sevilla, once again demonstrating that he can be a valuable option at right-back. His performances are making the situation even more challenging for the English defender, who joined Real Madrid from his boyhood club, Liverpool.
Mourinho Praises Valverde
Speaking after the match, Mourinho had high praise for the Uruguayan midfielder and explained how difficult it is for a manager to leave quality players such as Alexander-Arnold and Denzel Dumfries on the bench.
“The other day, half-jokingly and half-seriously, I said that if we had four Valverdes, they would play in four different positions. He is one of the most versatile players in modern football,” Mourinho said.
The manager praised the Uruguayan’s performance, explaining that he needed a player with energy and quality on the right flank for the game against Sevilla.
“It is not easy for a manager to leave two quality right-backs on the bench, but I thought it would be very useful to have a player with energy and quality playing behind Endrick,” he explained.
Mourinho added that Valverde does not need to be convinced of his importance to the team, describing him as a footballer capable of performing at a high level in several different positions.
Alexander-Arnold Heading for the Exit?
Alexander-Arnold has started only three of Real Madrid’s first eight La Liga matches this season, a statistic that highlights his difficulties in adapting to his role within the Spanish giants’ squad.
As a result, speculation has increased over a possible return to Liverpool, should the right conditions emerge for a deal in the future.
The English defender, who was one of Liverpool’s key players for several years, must now fight for regular minutes at Real Madrid. If his situation does not improve, leaving the Spanish capital could become an option worth considering.
For now, Alexander-Arnold faces a battle to establish himself at the Santiago Bernabeu, with Valverde’s versatility giving the coaching staff another attractive option on the right side of the defence.