A Concerning Medical Report

Real Madrid confirmed on Tuesday the injury of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who had to leave the match against Marseille just two minutes in. After undergoing medical tests, the club announced that he suffered a muscle injury in his left hamstring, a huge setback for Xabi Alonso at the start of the season.

Although the club does not usually specify recovery times, it is expected that the English full-back will be sidelined for six to eight weeks. His return is projected for November, meaning he will miss key fixtures in both LaLiga and the Champions League.

Double Trouble for Madrid’s Defense

The problem is twofold for Los Blancos: Dani Carvajal, who replaced Trent against Marseille, was sent off and could miss up to three Champions League games. This leaves Real Madrid without natural right-backs during a demanding stretch of the campaign.

Among the matches Alexander-Arnold will miss are El Clásico against Barcelona and the trip to Anfield to face Liverpool, a particularly special clash for him given his past with the Reds.

A Packed Calendar with No Room for Error

The absence of the Englishman forces Alonso to look for alternatives. Players like Lucas Vázquez or even Éder Militão could fill the role, though neither provides the same offensive weight and creativity as Trent, who is key in build-up play and set pieces.

With a tight schedule and heavyweight rivals, Real Madrid will now have to cope without one of its marquee signings until November — a true test for Xabi Alonso’s new project.