Former Liverpool full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold has received an outpouring of support from ex-teammates after suffering his second injury setback of the season. The England international is reportedly expected to be sidelined for around two months following a quad injury sustained during Real Madrid’s 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao in midweek.
Real Madrid confirmed the setback in an official statement on Thursday, saying:
“Following tests carried out today by the Real Madrid Medical Services on our player, Trent Alexander-Arnold, he has been diagnosed with a muscular injury to the rectus anterior quadriceps in his left leg. His progress will be monitored.”
Taking to social media on Friday, Trent Alexander-Arnold expressed his frustration and determination to return stronger.
“Absolutely gutted about this one,” he wrote. “The timing of it hurts, but I will work hard to come back stronger and better! See you in 2026, Madridistas.”
The post quickly drew messages of encouragement from former Liverpool teammates and friends across the football world. Andy Robertson replied: “Stay positive, brother,” accompanied by a red heart emoji, while Jordan Henderson added praying hands and a heart.
The post was also liked by several Liverpool stars past and present, including Dominik Szoboszlai, Darwin Núñez, Luis Díaz, Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch, and Curtis Jones, along with Naby Keïta, Gini Wijnaldum, and youngster Rio Ngumoha.
Alexander-Arnold’s move to Madrid last summer — a deal worth around £10 million as he approached the end of his Liverpool contract — was meant to offer a fresh challenge and the opportunity to compete in the Club World Cup.
The 26-year-old has struggled with recurring hamstring and muscular injuries, limiting his appearances and momentum. His brief return to Anfield with Madrid in the Champions League was met with boos from sections of the home crowd, a stark reminder of how emotional his departure had been.
Off the pitch, reports suggest growing unrest within Madrid’s dressing room, with several players — including Vinícius Júnior — rumoured to be unhappy with manager Xabi Alonso’s methods.
For Trent Alexander-Arnold, the latest injury represents another frustrating chapter in a difficult start to life at the Bernabéu. His absence not only impacts Madrid’s campaign but also casts doubt over his England World Cup hopes, as the defender faces yet another race against time to regain fitness and form.
