Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Read more
Trent Alexander-Arnold has expressed his delight at working with reappointed Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, describing it as “a pleasure” and stating his belief that the Portuguese coach can help the club secure trophies.
Mourinho returned to the Spanish giants in June for his second spell, following a disappointing previous campaign where the club missed out on silverware after finishing second in La Liga behind Barcelona and exiting the Champions League at the quarter-final stage after losing to Bayern Munich.
Alexander-Arnold, who joined Real Madrid from Liverpool last year, is relishing the chance to play under Mourinho.
“I have always admired the coach (Mourinho). I’ve played against him a couple of times, and it’s a pleasure to work with him and his team,” he said in a statement.
Mourinho has returned to Real Madrid (PA)
He further elaborated on the demanding environment Mourinho has cultivated, noting: “It’s intense. The principles and the level of demand are very high, so I’m looking forward to seeing how, the more we get to know each other, the more we learn and the more he can teach us. And we’re all willing and eager to learn and improve.”
The 27-year-old full-back added: “I’m sure he’ll teach us many things and help us win trophies this year.”
Alexander-Arnold’s first season in Spain was hampered by injuries, which meant he did not always command a regular place in the starting line-up, often rotating in and out of the side. However, the departure of defender Dani Carvajal in May has now opened a significant opportunity for him to establish himself as Madrid’s first-choice right-back.
“I’ve been out of action for a long time, so it’s good to finally be back and to lay a solid foundation for a successful season,” he commented.
Thomas Tuchel left Alexander-Arnold out of his World Cup squad (Getty)
Real Madrid are set to kick off their 2026-27 LaLiga campaign against Espanyol on August 22.
Alexander-Arnold may also feel he has a point to prove after being left out of England’s World Cup squad by Thomas Tuchel.
The German manager opted to pick Reece James, Djed Spence and Tino Livramento ahead of Alexander-Arnold, and overlooked the former Liverpool defender again when Livramento pulled out injured by replacing him with Trevoh Chalobah.