Mourinho sends a clear message to Alexander‑Arnold during the Clasico

Under the lights of the Camp Nou, Real Madrid beat FC Barcelona 2-1 on Sunday evening, thanks to Kylian Mbappé's brace. José Mourinho used the victory to send a clear message to Trent Alexander‑Arnold, relegating the English full‑back to the bench for the Clasico.

Real dominated the match from the early minutes, imposing their tempo on FC Barcelona's ground. Kylian scored the two goals that sealed the 2-1 scoreline. José rediscovered the taste of success against his former rival.

Trent Alexander‑Arnold, who arrived from Liverpool in the summer of 2025, was regarded as one of the most creative full‑backs in Europe. Yet he endured a particularly frustrating evening, relegated to the background. Alexander expressed his desire to prove his worth.

Mourinho bets on Valverde and Dumfries

Mourinho preferred Federico Valverde at right‑back from the kickoff. In the 62nd minute, Valverde handed his place to Denzel Dumfries, while Alexander‑Arnold remained on the bench. Madrid thus confirmed the hierarchy announced before the Clasico.

It was not until the 94th minute that the Englishman was finally introduced, replacing Arda Güler as Real led 2-1. His late entry highlighted the coach’s preference for the other options. Real maintained its advantage until the final whistle.

Journalist Craig Hope, in, had already described Alexander‑Arnold as the third choice behind Valverde and Dumfries. This description proved accurate during the duel. Valverde, a central midfielder, is favoured for his versatility.

Alexander‑Arnold holds onto hope

Consultant Terry Gibson had predicted that the player would “play against the more modest teams at home, but would not be present for the big matches”. This prediction came true to the minute. Gibson highlighted the surprise of seeing Alexander‑Arnold substituted at the start of the second half.

Alexander‑Arnold had recently delivered an encouraging performance against Villarreal, where he shone on set pieces and long passes. Frenchman Kylian Mbappé enjoys playing with him, praising his ability to deliver quick through balls. Despite these assets, Mourinho has not yet entrusted the Englishman with the big appointments.

According to journalist Guillem Balague, when asked, the defender does not consider leaving Real Madrid during the winter transfer window. “He wants to succeed at Real Madrid, so he has no intention of leaving,” Balague said, recalling Mourinho’s encouragement that his time would come. At 28, Alexander‑Arnold cannot be satisfied with a few minutes at the end of a match.