Trent Alexander-Arnold transfer update as 'hurt' Jose Mourinho reveals private talks

Mourinho says Alexander-Arnold accepted his explanation for limited minutes and is unlikely to leave Real Madrid despite speculation.

Trent Alexander-Arnold has struggled for regular playing time at Real Madrid this season, starting just four of seven appearances as Denzel Dumfries and midfielder Federico Valverde have been preferred at right-back. The 28-year-old's lack of minutes sparked transfer speculation, but Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho has moved to quash exit talk, revealing he held private discussions with the former Liverpool star.

Mourinho explained his team selection, saying: "Trent and Dumfries accepted my explanations well. They understood that this choice was made in the interest of the collective and was not aimed at anyone." The manager acknowledged the difficulty of managing a squad with multiple options per position, admitting it "hurts" him to leave players out but insisting tactical needs take priority. "I felt we needed to change our midfield and play Fede in that position. It was a decision made for the team, not based on individual players."

Alexander-Arnold signed from Liverpool for £10 million last summer but injuries disrupted his debut campaign. He made just 22 starts in his first season and has found opportunities limited this term, though he was named in the starting XI for Real Madrid's match against Racing Santander.