Liverpool vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold has yet to address his future amid ongoing speculation linking him to a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid.
The 25-year-old right-back’s contract with Liverpool runs through the summer of 2025, drawing significant interest from Madrid, especially with their starting right-back, Dani Carvajal, out until the 2025/26 season due to an ACL injury.
Additionally, Carvajal’s replacement, Lucas Vasquez, is also sidelined with an injury, prompting Madrid to seek a permanent solution for the position.
In Liverpool’s recent 2-0 win over Aston Villa, which extended their Premier League lead to five points after Manchester City’s 2-1 defeat to Brighton, Alexander-Arnold was forced to leave the pitch in the 25th minute due to injury. He was substituted by Conor Bradley, who played a key role in the victory.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed that Alexander-Arnold is expected to recover in time for their Champions League match against Real Madrid on November 27, a crucial fixture for both teams.
Real Madrid’s management is reportedly optimistic that the strong friendship between Alexander-Arnold and Jude Bellingham could be pivotal in securing a move to the Santiago Bernabeu.
Spanish media outlets suggest that the transfer could be finalized soon, with Alexander-Arnold potentially joining Madrid on a free transfer.
Despite the growing rumors, Alexander-Arnold has remained silent about his future, as he has in past contract negotiations.
Meanwhile, Arne Slot has downplayed concerns over the uncertainty surrounding his vice-captain, focusing instead on guiding Liverpool through a challenging schedule after the international break.
Manchester United’s summer signing Manuel Ugarte is proving his worth in midfield, showcasing his talent and solidifying his place in the team just as manager Ruben Amorim takes charge. Ugarte, who previously played under Amorim at Sporting CP, had an eventful season in France before joining United, where he claimed the Ligue 1 title with Paris Saint-Germain and shared the pitch with Kylian Mbappe.
Reflecting on his experience with Mbappe, Ugarte shared insights with BeIN Sports. He expressed admiration for the French star’s agility and skill, especially his knack for escaping defenders with ease. “He’s one of the players who surprised me the most,” Ugarte said, highlighting Mbappe’s ability to maneuver away from opponents and finish with precision.
Ugarte also praised Mbappe’s character, adding, “Day-to-day, he’s a great person. His brother is the same, and Kylian was always a 10 with me.” With Mbappe’s high-profile transfer to Real Madrid, Ugarte expressed confidence in the forward’s ability to integrate well in Madrid’s dressing room.
While Mbappe’s start at Real Madrid has yet to transform European football as some expected, Ugarte’s experience playing alongside such a star has undoubtedly prepared him for the intense environment at Manchester United.
