Right after Real Madrid's 3-0 win over Real Oviedo, Trent Alexander-Arnold was less excited to celebrate.
The reason is understandable because the England international was only put on the field in the final minutes and played for only 3 minutes, touching the ball correctly at one time. His only contribution was an acceleration to win the aerial dispute situation at the end of the match.
On social networks, many people have become satirical, especially Liverpool fans. They were a bit excited to see their former player sit on the bench. Before that, Alexander-Arnold had been bragging about his career turning point in Spain.
However, this reality is not too surprising. Coach Xabi Alonso is a rotating master, always keeping the squad fresh and prioritizing the strongest force in big matches.
In that context, Alexander-Arnold having to accept a limited playing time zone is a completely predictable scenario as Alonso constantly adjusts the tactical system.
Alexander-Arnold made his first start for Los Blancos this season with a solid performance. Basically, he played solidly but did not stand out, while Real Madrid in general only stopped at an average level.
They still win, and for the Royal team, the more important thing is how the system works. Real Madrid wants to aim for long-term flexibility and stability. In fact, Los Blancos applied the "Galactico formula" to overcome Osasuna with a score of 1-0.
That is exactly what happened on the pitch. Alexander-Arnold left his mark with a few impressive passes to Vinicius Jr and a number of skillful ball handling. However, he has also been exploited by opposing strikers for his weakness in speed many times.
That has led many to believe that the England defender will continue to be given the opportunity to develop. However, in the context of Real Madrid possessing many quality options, Alexander-Arnold being on the bench is an inevitable scenario.
In fact, in the next match, he had to give way to Dani Carvajal - the outstanding player on the right wing.
The interesting thing about the whole story is that no one is sure what will happen. Alonso has two excellent right-backs, both in the same position but bringing completely different styles.
For Alonso, it is almost a dream, because the Spaniard always values flexibility and tactical adaptation. Having two world-class options to rotate is a big advantage.
Alonso has also stressed this many times before: "We have about 20 players in the squad and I will try to make the most of everyone's abilities. Sometimes you only have a few minutes on the pitch but it can still be important. My intention is that everyone contributes to the team. It would be normal.
However, at some point, the strongest squad will have to be selected. Whether it was in the away match against Liverpool in the Champions League, or in the first El Clasico of the season, Alonso was forced to announce 11 of the most outstanding names.
And then it will be clear whether Alonso is a rotating master, or simply because he has not fully put his faith in his first big contract.
