Mourinho rules out Alexander-Arnold as regular midfielder

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s suitability for a midfield role has resurfaced after Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho deployed the England international in the center during Tuesday’s 2-1 Champions League victory over Inter Milan. 

The 27-year-old, who has previously played in midfield for England and Liverpool, made only his second competitive start of the season.

Despite using Alexander-Arnold in that role, Mourinho insisted he does not consider the former Liverpool player a natural midfielder. 

The Portuguese manager praised his tactical understanding and performance but explained that the decision was largely influenced by the absence of Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Guler and Bernardo Silva.

Alexander-Arnold lined up alongside Federico Valverde and created two chances while attempting more crosses than any other Real Madrid player. However, he failed to win a tackle and completed 83.3% of his passes. 

He was substituted shortly after Inter pulled a goal back in the 77th minute, with whistles heard around the Bernabéu as Madrid struggled to close out the match.

Mourinho acknowledged that playing centrally presents different challenges for Alexander-Arnold, particularly because of the position’s physical demands.

He said the England international had given everything before leaving the pitch. He noted that he had lost possession on occasions because playing in midfield requires different qualities from operating at right-back.

The experiment has nevertheless highlighted Alexander-Arnold’s versatility. His ability to pass, cross, deliver through balls, and contribute from central areas has previously led managers to consider moving him further forward. 

He also scored from midfield for England against Malta in June 2023, although Gareth Southgate eventually abandoned his attempt to establish him as a central player during Euro 2024.

For now, Alexander-Arnold remains involved in a battle for the right-back position at Real Madrid, with Denzel Dumfries also competing for the role. 

Mourinho is reportedly impressed by the England international’s versatility and attacking qualities, but his comments suggest midfield will remain an occasional solution rather than a permanent change.