Mourinho could turn to versatile Real Madrid defender to fill midfield void against Inter Milan – report

Mourinho could turn to versatile Real Madrid defender to fill midfield void against Inter Milan – report Jose Mourinho could turn to an unconventional solution when Real Madrid begin their Champions League campaign against Inter Milan , with Trent Alexander-Arnold being considered for a midfield role alongside Fede Valverde. According to Alberto Pereiro (h/t Madrid Zone ), Mourinho is weighing up the idea of using the England international as part of a double pivot at the Santiago Bernabeu.  Notably, the move would come out of necessity rather than preference, with Real Madrid facing a serious shortage of midfield options for the European opener. As per the journalist, Alexander-Arnold would be given responsibility for progressing the ball and initiating attacks, while Valverde would provide the running, defensive cover and physical presence needed to balance the experiment. Mourinho faces midfield selection crisis Real Madrid’s options have been severely weakened by suspensions, as Eduardo Camavinga, Bernardo Silva and Arda Guler are all unavailable for the meeting with Inter. Trent Alexander-Arnold could start alongside Valverde in midfield vs Inter. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images) Aurelien Tchouameni’s involvement is also uncertain, with the midfielder not expected to be ready to start.  His potential absence would leave Mourinho facing the prospect of turning to academy players to complete his squad and potentially even his starting XI. That is why Alexander-Arnold has emerged as a serious alternative. The England international has the technical qualities to play deeper. His passing range and ability to see openings from distance could give Real Madrid an extra creative outlet from midfield, particularly after the lack of invention shown in their defeat against Betis . The tactical change would also allow Dumfries to occupy the right-back position, freeing Alexander-Arnold to move into the centre. Alexander-Arnold could provide the missing creativity Mourinho will be forced into making tactical changes against Inter Milan. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images) Pairing Alexander-Arnold with Valverde would create a clear division of responsibilities.  The former Liverpool player could dictate the tempo and look for long passes into the attacking areas, while Valverde would cover ground around him and compensate for the defensive demands of the role. It would be a significant tactical adjustment from Mourinho, but Real Madrid may need something different. The club cannot afford for their Champions League starter to develop a loss of confidence, particularly with their campaign beginning at home. Inter’s visit therefore will be an early test of Mourinho’s ability to react when his preferred midfield options are unavailable.