Xabi Alonso surprisingly omitted new signing Trent Alexander-Arnold from Real Madrid's starting lineup against Real Oviedo in their second La Liga match of the new season as veteran Spanish full-back Dani Carvajal returned to the lineup. Another new signing, Franco Mastantuono was handed his first start, while Rodrygo was slotted into the attack, despite reported transfer interest from Manchester City.
Reece James has been told that he is "worth £150m" and "better than Trent Alexander-Arnold" as the Chelsea captain bids to overcome his persistent injury woes. James has endured a tumultuous three-year spell plagued by recurring muscle and knee problems, resulting in sporadic availability. His 19 Premier League appearances for Chelsea last season marked his highest total since the 2021–22 campaign.
Trent Alexander-Arnold paid a touching tribute to his former Liverpool colleague Diogo Jota. The Reds star and his brother Andre Silva tragically passed away in a car accident in Spain on July 3. Alexander-Arnold, who shared a dressing room with Jota for five years at Anfield, bid an emotional goodbye to the Portuguese attacker after starring in Real Madrid's win over Borussia Dortmund.
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