Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso said on Saturday that he believes Trent Alexander-Arnold is only now beginning to “show what he can do” after his summer transfer from Liverpool.
The England international missed several weeks of action due to injury but has featured in Madrid’s last two matches.
At 27, Alexander-Arnold was rotated with veteran Dani Carvajal early in the season before suffering a hamstring setback.
“I think we will see a better Trent,” Alonso said during a news conference ahead of Madrid’s La Liga clash with Girona on Sunday.
“Without doubt it’s positive after the injury he could do 90 minutes against Elche, 90 against Olympiacos. We need him. It’s his first year and it’s normal to have this adaption (period).”
The defender left Liverpool, where he made over 300 appearances, to join the Spanish giants.
Although Alexander-Arnold had a mixed performance in the 2-2 draw against Elche, he stepped up as Madrid defeated Olympiacos 4-3 in Athens.
“He’s starting to feel (like) himself,” Alonso added.
“He is demanding too, he plays at a top, top level. We have to be there for him, in this change that is so big for him, but it’s good news.”
Alonso also praised fellow England international Jude Bellingham for his recent performances.
“I have very good communication with Jude, a very good relationship,” he said.
“He’s a top world-class star, but he has this desire to improve, to learn, to be more efficient with the big potential he’s got. I like these players with this curiosity and initiative to ask what we can do better.”
Madrid, having drawn their last two league games, will aim to regain momentum against Girona.
Alonso confirmed that Franco Mastantuono, Antonio Rudiger, and Eder Militao have returned from injury and will be available for selection, while Raul Asencio remains a doubt.
