Why Trent Alexander-Arnold Was Left Out of the England Squad?

Just a few days back, the world was moved by the transfer of one of the best right-backs in the Premier League to the Spanish capital, Madrid, from Liverpool after lifting his 2nd EPL Trophy under the successor of Jurgen Klopp. But the recent news related to Trent Alexander-Arnold's exclusion from the England Squad has raised the eyebrows of not only Madrid and Liverpool fans but also neutral football fans.

The recent form of the right back, considered one of the best English football players, has been a point of concern for both his national team and club. His most-awaited debut match for the 15-time UCL Champions only lasted 68 minutes, followed by the Oveido match where he started from the bench for Xabi Alonso. The player who had a G/A of 14 and played a crucial role in helping Liverpool win their historic 20th EPL trophy has been sidelined by both Xabi Alonso and Thomas Tuchel following recent performance.

Why was Trent Alexander-Arnold Dropped from England Squad?

Arnold's move to Real Madrid was thought of as a defining moment in the career of the right back who has dominated the English top tier, but now it seems that it's turning out to be a concern for the English player. With the Madrid Captain, Dani Carvajal, delivering at 33, Arnold is facing some real issues establishing himself in the playing 11 of Xabi Alonso. Additionally, his performance in the first two matches of La Liga and the preseason friendly was not up to par, according to Xabi Alonso.

However, his exclusion from the National Team cannot be completely blamed on his club performance. Thomas Tuchel, the current English national coach, already pointed out the lack of defensive contribution made by the full-back. In a recent statement, he weighed in on the situation, saying: “ This major impact that he had for Liverpool for so many years..If he wants to have this impact in the English National Team, then he has to take the defensive part very, very seriously.”

His exclusion from the team in friendlies matches against Andorra and Senegal was a clear hint for Alexander Arnold that he may not be in the plans of Thomas Tuchel, who wants his full-backs to do double hard work, in which the defensive part is the priority.

Trent’s Form or Managers' Tactics: What’s Behind Alexander-Arnold’s England Squad Exclusion?

At first look, Trent Alexander-Arnold England Squad exclusion can be blamed on his recent performance and defensive weaknesses, which gave managers like Xabi Alonso and Thomas Tuchel a chance to keep the player out of play, but looking closer, the reason may be different.

The above table clearly shows Trent Alexander-Arnold trailing to Dani Carvajal in terms of defensive stats, which shows the new Madrid manager is also emphasizing defensive solidity, in which Arnold has to work more; otherwise, it will be difficult for him to find a place in the opening 11. Additionally, it also shows the main problem Lack of defensive contribution by the player, which is the same reason behind Trent Alexander-Arnold England squad exclusion.