Trent Alexander-Arnold punished for breaking strict Real Madrid rule

Trent Alexander-Arnold has found himself in the bad book of Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa as he breaks one of the club’s strict rules.

Alexander-Arnold was a surprise exclusion from Real Madrid’s starting line-up against Atletico Madrid as veteran right-back and club captain Dani Carvajal retained his spot from a 4-1 victory over Elche.

While many considered the decision made by Arbeloa tactical, its been reported that Alexander-Arnold was punished for breaking a strict rule in the squad.

According to Spanish publication MARCA, Arbeloa made the decision to leave Alexander-Arnold out of his line-up because the former Liverpool star was late to one of their final training sessions ahead of the Madrid derby.

Vinicius Junior and Trent Alexander-Arnold  celebrate after victory over Atletico de Madrid. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

The report added Arbeloa felt the move was necessary to respect the club’s code of conduct and preserve dressing room harmony.

Madrid sources later confirmed to The Athletic that Alexander-Arnold’s absence was a form of punishment after he didn’t arrive on time.

Despite the punishment, the 27-year-old defender came off the bench to assist Vinicius Junior’s goal that secured a 3-2 win over Atletico at the Bernabeu.

Real Madrid boss Arbeloa was asked about his decision to start Carvajal over Alexander-Arnold after his side beat their rivals.

But Arbeloa didn’t give anything away, saying: “I choose the best starting eleven. Dani Carvajal had great minutes and I’m very happy with him.

“But Trent had a great impact, and I’m lucky to have many good options.”

It’s been a challenging week for Alexander-Arnold who was also left out of Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the March international break.