Real Madrid star explains why Trent Alexander-Arnold will thrive under Xabi Alonso

Xabi Alonso is giving Trent Alexander-Arnold licence to thrill in his new-look Real Madrid set-up.

Real Madrid boss Alonso is slowly imposing his ideas and philosophy on his players through the Club World Cup. There is no doubt they are improving through the month-long tournament and now face the daunting task of Paris Saint Germain in the semi final in the MetLife Stadium.

That will be the litmus test for Alonso’s new “image” for his squad and one key aspect is that he has given both his full backs freedom to attack and get forward.

That will suit England defender Alexander-Arnold who already has an assist to his name but it also extends to Fran Garcia, one of the club’s academy graduates who has suddenly got a new lease of life under Alonso.

Garcia says that Alonso from day one has instilled confidence and freedom into the squad to allow them to relax and play.

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Spain international Garcia said: “The coach, as much to Trent as to me, is trying to give us the confidence to play well so we can help the team as much as possible. That helps you perform in the way that you need at Real Madrid.

“Madrid demands of you that you compete and that you win. It is the best club in the world. And in this tournament we are seeing progression, the things we are working on with the coach, the image is becoming a little clearer with each game.

“This has been such a valuable experience because we are together, the squad can improve and grow while we are here, learning from the coach.

“The level in this tournament has been very high, not just the European teams but the South American and Saudi Arabian ones, too. It’s been a very positive experience so far.”

Real Madrid won their quarter final against Borussia Dortmund 3-2 but they were in cruise control and nearly allowed it to slip in a rollercoaster final few minutes.

Kylian Mbappe is fit-again and Garcia believes that will give them a big lift before they face Paris Saint Germain but they must also learn to stay focused until the end. Garcia said: “Dortmund was a game of the highest level, a Champions League game, and we have done well to prove that Real Madrid were better.

“I had the good fortune to see Mbappé’s goal from behind and it was a treat. Hopefully he is feeling well, gathering strength, and in the end he will help us a lot.”

Alonso has embraced the homegrown talent of the Garcias as the left back has been a key feature while back-up striker Gonzalo Garcia has been a huge bonus. Garcia, 21, is currently joint top scorer in the tournament with four goals but leads the chart as he has one assist too. The academy graduate has seized his moment while Mbappe has been out ill and yet may still go out on loan for the season.

Garcia has been patient for his opportunity and is now determined to shine. He added: “They are comparing me with Raul, a legend. If i can do half of what he did in this shirt then it will be more than a dream.

“I have been working, waiting for a chance, but not in my dreams would i have thought of this. I don’t feel a lot of pressure. I have been working and waiting for this moment. The coach, the players, the staff all give me a lot of confidence.

“Kylian is…almost…let’s say the best player in the world. I feel so lucky to share a pitch and training with him, to learn from him.”

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