Trent Alexander-Arnold was officially presented as a Real Madrid player on Thursday, delivering a polished speech in Spanish and declaring his move a “dream come true.” The 26-year-old right-back has signed a six-year deal with the European champions, ending a lifelong association with Liverpool in one of the summer’s biggest transfers.
Alexander-Arnold, who would have become a free agent at the end of June, made the switch early after Real Madrid paid Liverpool a fee to release him in time for the Club World Cup, where Real face Al-Hilal on 18 June in Miami. Speaking to fans and media at the Bernabéu alongside club president Florentino Perez, Alexander-Arnold impressed by addressing the crowd in Spanish.
“Signing for a club like Real Madrid doesn’t happen every day,” he said. “It’s a dream come true. I’m very happy and proud to be here. I want to win many titles and enjoy football with the best in the world.”
His unveiling featured a highlight reel of his best moments at Liverpool, including assists, long-range goals, and defensive stops. The presentation ended with the Englishman holding up his new shirt—bearing the name “Trent” and the number 12—instead of his iconic Liverpool 66.
Perez praised the signing, calling Alexander-Arnold “one of the best full-backs in world football” and a player who “has won everything.” The England international was joined at the ceremony by his girlfriend Estelle Behnke, his parents, and siblings.
Shortly after, Alexander-Arnold spoke to the press in English, revealing he had been learning Spanish for several months in preparation for the move. “It shows the intent I have to come here and get off on the right foot,” he said. “I think a few people were surprised, including the president!”
The £840m buy-out clause in his new contract underlines Real Madrid’s belief in the player’s long-term future. He joins a squad full of talent, including fellow England international Jude Bellingham, with whom he shares a close friendship. “A lot of people think Jude played a big role in me coming here,” said Alexander-Arnold. “We talked, but ultimately, this club speaks for itself.”
His transfer comes after helping Liverpool win the 2024–25 Premier League title under new manager Arne Slot. In total, he made 354 appearances for the Reds, scoring 23 goals and contributing 86 assists. His trophy haul includes one Champions League, two Premier League titles, and three domestic cups.
Alexander-Arnold’s departure wasn’t without controversy. After announcing he would leave the club, he was booed during a substitute appearance against Arsenal. Jürgen Klopp, Liverpool’s former manager, later admitted he “turned off the TV” in frustration after hearing the jeers. Fortunately, the full-back received a warm send-off during Liverpool’s final match of the campaign at Anfield.
In Madrid, Alexander-Arnold will now work under newly appointed manager Xabi Alonso, a player he idolized growing up. Alonso, a Champions League winner with Liverpool in 2005, was one of the influences on Alexander-Arnold’s passing game.
“I told him that he was a big idol of mine,” said the new Madrid recruit. “Watching him pass a ball made me want to do the same. It influenced how I trained and set standards for myself.”
The move represents both a personal and professional step for Alexander-Arnold, who insists Real Madrid was the only club he would ever consider leaving Liverpool for.
“It wasn’t easy,” he admitted. “I’ve been at Liverpool my whole life. But this was the right time and the right opportunity.”
With a Club World Cup campaign just days away and a new era under Alonso about to begin, Alexander-Arnold has wasted no time showing he’s ready to be part of Real Madrid’s future—both on and off the pitch.
