The debate surrounding Trent Alexander-Arnold’s defensive capabilities has reignited after Manchester United legend Gary Neville claimed Real Madrid’s Dani Carvajal is a superior right-back. The Sky Sports pundit issued a stark warning to the Liverpool star, suggesting he must take his defending more seriously—especially with speculation growing over a potential move to Real Madrid.
Neville, one of the Premier League’s greatest-ever full-backs, did not hold back in his assessment of Alexander-Arnold’s game. While acknowledging the 25-year-old’s extraordinary passing range and attacking influence, he argued that Carvajal’s all-round game makes him the more complete defender.
“Trent is phenomenal going forward—his vision and delivery are world-class,” Neville said. “But if you’re asking who’s the better right-back, right now, it’s Carvajal. Defensively, he’s stronger, more disciplined. Trent has to get more serious about that side of his game, especially if he wants to play for a club like Real Madrid.”
The comments come at a delicate time for Alexander-Arnold, who has faced recurring criticism over his positioning and one-on-one defending. Despite being a key figure in Liverpool’s recent success—including a Premier League title and Champions League triumph—his defensive lapses have often been highlighted in big matches.
At 32, Carvajal boasts a trophy-laden career that includes five Champions League titles with Real Madrid. A consistent performer in both domestic and European competitions, the Spaniard is renowned for his reliability in high-pressure situations. His ability to balance defensive solidity with attacking contributions has made him a mainstay for club and country.
Alexander-Arnold, on the other hand, has redefined the modern full-back role with his playmaking abilities. His record-breaking assist numbers and creative influence have drawn comparisons to midfield maestros rather than traditional defenders. However, Neville believes that to reach the very top, he must refine the fundamentals.
“The best full-backs in history—Cafu, Philipp Lahm, even myself—we had to defend first,” Neville said. “Trent has the talent to be the best, but he needs to work on his concentration and decision-making when he’s not on the ball.”
Neville’s comments take on added significance amid reports linking Alexander-Arnold with a shock move to Real Madrid. The Spanish giants are said to be monitoring his contract situation at Liverpool, with his current deal expiring in 2025. While no formal approach has been made, the prospect of the England international joining Madrid has sparked debate over whether he could adapt to La Liga’s tactical demands.
Spanish football expert Guillem Balagué weighed in, suggesting that Madrid’s style might suit Alexander-Arnold’s strengths. “At Real, full-backs are expected to contribute in attack, but they also have to be defensively sound,” Balagué explained. “Trent would need to evolve, but under Carlo Ancelotti, he could thrive in a system that protects him slightly more.”
Under Jürgen Klopp, Alexander-Arnold has increasingly operated in a hybrid midfield role, drifting into central areas to dictate play. This tactical tweak has mitigated some defensive concerns while maximizing his creative output. Yet critics argue that elite opponents—particularly in the Champions League—have exploited the space he leaves behind.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher, while a staunch supporter of Alexander-Arnold, has previously admitted that his defensive flaws could hinder him in certain matches. “There are games where you’d maybe think twice about starting him,” Carragher said last season. “But his positives far outweigh the negatives.”
The debate extends to the international stage, where Alexander-Arnold has struggled to cement a starting role for England. Gareth Southgate has often preferred Kyle Walker, Reece James, or even Kieran Trippier in crucial matches, citing defensive stability as a priority.
Neville’s remarks will only intensify scrutiny over whether Alexander-Arnold can ever be trusted in the biggest games unless he improves his one-on-one defending. With Euro 2024 approaching, the Liverpool star faces a pivotal period in his career.
Alexander-Arnold has never shied away from criticism, often responding on the pitch with match-winning performances. If Real Madrid’s interest materializes, the challenge of proving himself in a new league could be the ultimate test of his adaptability.
For now, Klopp and Liverpool will continue to build their system around his unique skill set. But as Neville’s comments underline, the football world remains divided: is Trent Alexander-Arnold a generational talent who transcends traditional defensive roles, or does he need to conform to the old-school full-back ideals to be considered truly world-class?
One thing is certain—his next move, whether tactical or transfer-related, could define his legacy.
