Trent talks Bellingham, Real Madrid, Liverpool exit – ‘One of the hardest decisions of my life’

Real Madrid’s marquee summer signing, Trent Alexander-Arnold, has spoken openly about his move from Liverpool to Spain, admitting that while Anfield will always feel like home, he believes joining Los Blancos was the right step for his career.

In an interview with GQ magazine (h/t AS ), the England international explained the emotion behind the decision.

“It was one of the hardest decisions of my life. Liverpool is my home; it made me who I am. But Madrid felt like the right step, at the right time.”

Alexander-Arnold recognises the weight that comes with playing for Real Madrid , but says it’s exactly the kind of challenge he craved.

“It’s a challenge, but it’s one I welcome. The Bernabeu is sacred. You feel the weight of the shirt, but that’s what drives you to give it your all.”

Furthermore, he admitted that ambition was the main reason behind his departure from Liverpool, describing it as both a personal and professional step forward.

“Liverpool made me who I am. More than anything, it was ambition and a personal desire for change. To challenge myself in a new environment.

“Of course, Real Madrid’s legacy is undeniable. But more than that, what attracted me was ambition and the desire to test myself in a new context.”

Trent Alexander-Arnold reveals Bellingham’s role. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

The right-back also revealed that his long-time England teammate Jude Bellingham played a part in easing his decision.

“Yes, I’ve spoken to Jude a couple of times; we’ve known each other for a long time in England. He had nothing but good things to say about the club and the atmosphere.”

Now part of one of the most demanding dressing rooms in world football, Trent knows adapting won’t be easy, but he sees the challenge as motivation.

“A dressing room like this is a challenge, but one that motivates.”

He also touched on the differences between English and Spanish football, stating,

“The pace and style are different, but that’s what excites me. I’m looking forward to testing myself in that environment.

“Of course, it’s different, but that’s what motivates me: testing myself in LaLiga, making my mark in Madrid.”

Lastly, he also talked about the change of name on his shirt, going from Alexander-Arnold to just Trent.

“Yes, it’ll just be ‘Trent.’ In Europe, many people were confused by my name; some called me Alex, others Arnold… so I made it simpler. Just call me Trent,” he concluded.