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Spanish Press Turns on Trent After Real Madrid Move: A Familiar Script echoing Kylian Mbappé's Scrutiny

He just got here, and they aren't even giving him a chance to play more games before criticizing him.

By Pame Sun

Trent Alexander- Arnold. Photo. Goal.com
Trent Alexander- Arnold. Photo. Goal.com

Real Madrid secured a significant coup by signing Trent on a free transfer after his contract with Liverpool expired. The move was widely considered one of the biggest deals of the transfer window, given his quality and age. However, some in the Spanish press have wasted no time in criticizing him, seemingly attempting to launch a campaign against the new Galáctico. The narrative forming suggests a rush to judgment, denying him the crucial time needed to integrate and build confidence on the pitch.

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Echoes of Mbappé: New Signings Face Familiar Scrutiny, Denied the Opportunity to Flourish

Much like the backlash Trent faced in Liverpool when his move to Real Madrid became public, certain elements of the Spanish media are now highlighting his perceived weaknesses. Those who truly know the player have dismissed these as baseless attacks, but it appears the opportunity to criticize a Real Madrid player trumps journalistic integrity for some. What's particularly concerning is the lack of patience being shown; he's barely arrived and already facing intense scrutiny, without being afforded the consistent playing time needed to find his footing and demonstrate his capabilities.

This trend is not new. Antonio Rüdiger faced similar scrutiny during his first season, with some claiming he wasn't good enough for the Blancos. Kylian Mbappé endured a barrage of criticism last season, which his detractors have yet to retract despite his strong performances. In both cases, and now with Trent, there seems to be a premature rush to judge before the players have had a fair opportunity to adapt and showcase their talent.

The latest to weigh in is sports journalist Alfredo Segurola, who commented after Trent's recent match against Juventus. While Segurola initially highlighted Trent's assist for Gonzalo's goal, this praise quickly gave way to scathing criticism. This immediate shift underscores the apparent impatience, focusing on perceived flaws rather than acknowledging the challenges of adapting to a new league, team, and tactical system.

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It seems Trent, who has had minimal training sessions and already played four matches, is facing the same treatment. Critics are overlooking the fact that he needs a significant period of adaptation, especially considering the recent World Cup schedule disrupting a proper pre-season. They also fail to consider the tactical demands of manager Xabi Alonso, which require time and repetition for full implementation. The prevailing sentiment in these critical voices appears to be a demand for instant perfection, denying Trent the chance to grow into his role and prove his worth through consistent playing time and the development of crucial on-field chemistry. They expect instant integration and are using him as a convenient target to attack Real Madrid, rather than allowing him the space to build confidence and demonstrate the qualities that led to his high-profile signing.


Pame Sun

Pame Sun

Pamela Suntaxi, better known as Pame Sun, is a 26 year old Ecuadorian sports journalist, recognized for her passion and dedication to the world of soccer. Since she was young, she showed a deep interest in this sport thanks to her mother, and throughout her career she has managed to consolidate herself as one of the leading voices in the sports world.Specializing in the analysis and coverage of the country's most important teams, such as Liga Deportiva Universitaria de Quito (LDU), Barcelona Spo...

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