Jose Mourinho gives blunt review of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s midfield performance for Real Madrid
Jose Mourinho praised Trent Alexander-Arnold's effort in a midfield role during Real Madrid's Champions League win over Inter Milan but stated he is not a natural midfielder. Mourinho emphasized that Alexander-Arnold's true strengths lie in his traditional full-back position.
Why it matters
The analysis provides insight into tactical football decisions at the elite club level and the challenges of positional versatility.
Jose Mourinho does not see Trent Alexander-Arnold as a midfielder despite playing the English right-back in midfield for Real Madrid's 2-1 win over Inter Milan in the Champions League.
Madrid punished two costly Inter mistakes, with Kylian Mbappe and Federico Valverde scoring and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois keeping the visitors at bay at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Alexander-Arnold has shared minutes so far this season with summer signing Denzel Dumfries , and they started this game together with Dumfries at right-back and Alexander-Arnold in midfield.
The 27-year-old had a quiet game before being replaced by Aurelien Tchouameni late in the second half.
Mourinho credited Alexander-Arnold for his efforts, but suggested using him in midfield was not a long-term proposition.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in