Alexander-Arnold Move: Hutton Sees Chelsea Fit Under Alonso
Former Liverpool defender argues the Englishman's creative skills would flourish in Xabi Alonso's system.
By Anthony Foster ·
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s tenure at Real Madrid has been defined by injury and bench time, prompting former full-back Alan Hutton to suggest a transfer to Chelsea could revitalize the 28-year-old’s career. Hutton argued that a reunion with Xabi Alonso, who is now managing the Blues, would allow Alexander-Arnold to utilize his specific strengths more effectively than he has under current Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho.
The Englishman joined the Spanish giants in the summer of 2024, moving from Liverpool after a long stint at his boyhood club. Despite his high profile, Alexander-Arnold appeared in only 21 league matches last season due to physical issues. This season has offered better health, yet his playing time has remained inconsistent. He has started just one of Real Madrid’s last six matches across all competitions, a trend that has raised questions about his long-term fit in Madrid.
Hutton identified Chelsea as the ideal destination because Alonso’s tactical approach would suit Alexander-Arnold’s game. “Trent Alexander-Arnold could thrive at Chelsea because Xabi Alonso would use him in the correct manner and get the best out of him, because his attacking threat is ridiculous,” Hutton told OLBG. He emphasized that the player’s vision and passing ability are elite, qualities that might be better utilized in the Premier League.
Mourinho has struggled to fit Alexander-Arnold into his preferred lineup, often opting for alternative options. Summer signing Denzel Dumfries has moved above the Englishman in the pecking order, while Mourinho has also deployed midfielder Federico Valverde as a makeshift right-back. Hutton noted the oddity of Valverde playing in defense while Alexander-Arnold sits on the bench, stating, “It is strange when you watch Real Madrid, I was watching El Clásico and Valverde played at right-back while Dumfries and Trent were on the bench.”
Mourinho acknowledged the difficulty of managing squad depth and player morale. “First of all, it hurts me. I don’t like to make players feel bad. I want them to feel good,” Mourinho said. He explained that tactical needs for midfield balance often outweigh individual sentiment, leading to the decision to place Valverde in the starting lineup.
As the January transfer window approaches, speculation regarding Alexander-Arnold’s future is growing. Jamie Carragher, a former Liverpool defender, expressed a desire to see the Englishman return to Anfield. “I’d have him back,” Carragher said on The Overlap. He added that while Alexander-Arnold would face criticism for his original move to Madrid, the club has missed his creativity.
The debate over Alexander-Arnold’s next move highlights the tactical mismatch that has defined his time in Spain. With Alonso now leading Chelsea, the prospect of a reunion offers a clear pathway for the player to reclaim his form. The decision will likely hinge on how both clubs view their defensive and creative needs in the coming months.
