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According to a report by Madrid Universal on Saturday, October 31, 2026, Trent Alexander Arnold is reportedly considering leaving Real Madrid due to growing frustration over his lack of regular playing time, with Premier League clubs Chelsea and Manchester United monitoring his situation ahead of a possible return to England.
The England international joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2025 after ending his long association with Liverpool. However, his move to Spain has not gone according to expectations, as injuries and limited opportunities have prevented him from establishing himself as a key member of the team.
According to the journalist Rodra P, via Defensa Central, Alexander Arnold is contemplating a return to English football because he is increasingly unhappy with his current situation at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The 28 year old has reportedly accumulated just 345 minutes of competitive action this season, struggling to convince manager Jose Mourinho that he deserves a regular starting position.
His situation has become more complicated following his reported fall behind Denzel Dumfries and Federico Valverde in the competition for the right back position. Mourinho has increasingly preferred using the Uruguayan midfielder in that role, further limiting Alexander Arnold's opportunities.
The lack of playing time has reportedly frustrated the former Liverpool star. Nevertheless, he is not currently prepared to force an immediate departure from the Spanish giants.
Instead, Alexander Arnold reportedly wants to continue fighting for his place in the squad while avoiding unnecessary tension within the dressing room by formally requesting a transfer.
Meanwhile, Chelsea and Manchester United have emerged as possible destinations if he eventually decides to end his difficult spell in Spain. Both Premier League sides are reportedly keeping a close eye on developments surrounding his future.
However, any potential transfer could prove complicated. Alexander-Arnold remains under a long-term contract at Real Madrid, giving the Spanish club significant negotiating power.
His substantial salary could also create financial challenges for interested clubs.
For now, his future remains uncertain, but continued struggles for regular football could eventually encourage him to consider returning to the Premier League.