Real Madrid defender produces a performance for the ages in his first start for England since 2024

Real Madrid defender produces a performance for the ages in his first start for England since 2024 The last few years have been quite difficult for Trent Alexander-Arnold, who endured a poor debut campaign at Real Madrid and subsequently missed the World Cup squad. But as part of the UEFA Nations League, the right-back has made his comeback to the national team and recently earned his first start for England since October 2024, as he started against Czechia. The former Liverpool star did not disappoint either, producing a brilliant performance in the right-back position and picking up the Man of the Match award. Trent’s performance against Czechia The Real Madrid defender was at his creative best, capping his display with an assist and a string of standout numbers. Trent created the most big chances in the match with one, added three key passes, and led the game for both accurate long balls (five) and accurate crosses (four). Defensively, he chipped in with two interceptions, while also racking up 95 touches at an 88 percent pass accuracy, earning an excellent 8.07 rating from WhoScored. It was the kind of commanding, all-action showing that made him one of the finest full-backs in the world during his time at Anfield. The Englishman also revealed the thinking behind his assist for Anthony Gordon, highlighting a clever half-time conversation. “I spoke to Gordon at halftime, and I told him that I would move into the spaces and that I would look for him and that he just needed to get to the far post,” he said (h/t Independent ). “I saw the run and was able to execute the pass. He’s a fantastic player who makes excellent runs, and it’s great playing with him,” he added. A timely reminder of his quality Can Trent get back to his best at Real Madrid? (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) The display served as a statement from Trent, who has endured a testing period on both the club and international fronts. The numbers behind his England career are remarkable too, with the Three Lions having won 74.1% of the matches he has started, a figure bettered only by Marcus Rashford among players with 25 or more starts. For Real Madrid, a rejuvenated and confident Trent can only be a positive. Having impressed for the club against Malaga earlier in the season, this latest showing suggests the right-back is beginning to rediscover his best form, which can only be a good sign for Jose Mourinho.