A hamstring problem in September and a thigh injury in December disrupted his first campaign and denied him the sustained run of games needed to build momentum and develop an understanding with his new team-mates, while a muscle issue during pre-season had already interrupted his preparations.
The 28-year-old defender has faced several injuries during his first campaign, including a pre-season muscle issue, a hamstring problem in September, and a thigh injury in December.
Trent Alexander-Arnold has experienced a frustrating start to life in Madrid following his transfer from Liverpool.
There have been several mitigating factors, and Alexander-Arnold is not the only player to have struggled to find his best form during a turbulent period for the club.
These physical setbacks disrupted his preparations and denied him the sustained run of games needed to build momentum and develop an understanding with his new team-mates.
Managerial comments and squad depth have further complicated his position, with the team utilizing multiple players across defensive roles.
Alexander-Arnold has participated in seven of the 13 games Real have played this season, though he has only started four times and has made just one assist - in a 4-0 home win over Malaga.
He made 21 La Liga appearances in 2025-26 out of a possible 38, with 14 starts, as injuries and a lack of continuity prevented Alexander-Arnold from establishing himself as a regular presence.