Spanish media concerned by the same Trent Alexander-Arnold issue after Real Madrid win

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Trent Alexander-Arnold received mixed reviews from Spanish media after Real Madrid's 3-0 Champions League victory over Manchester City, with his defensive battle against Jeremy Doku drawing particular attention

The Spanish media are still unconvinced by Trent Alexander-Arnold(Image: NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Trent Alexander-Arnold savored Real Madrid's victory against Manchester City on Wednesday night. The Spanish giants raced to a commanding 3-0 advantage at the Bernabeu, establishing a perfect platform in their Champions League round of 16 encounter.

Boss Alvaro Arbeloa included Alexander-Arnold in his starting XI, and the former Liverpool defender would have been delighted by Fede Valverde's opening-period treble. While the Uruguayan midfielder received widespread acclaim, Spanish newspapers offered contrasting views on Alexander-Arnold's display.

His individual battle with City's winger Jeremy Doku proved problematic. Pep Guardiola's side couldn't improve upon the early scoreline, yet the right-back's efforts to contain Doku drew negative attention.

Nevertheless, the England star earned plaudits for raising his performance levels following the interval. The 3-0 result leaves City facing a substantial challenge before the return fixture at the Etihad Stadium next week.

Alexander-Arnold will hope to retain his position as Real Madrid look to confirm their progression to the quarter-finals. Here's the Spanish press's assessment of the ex-Liverpool player's showing.

AS

Spanish publication AS described Alexander-Arnold as being "by far the weakest link" in Madrid's backline. The article suggested the 27-year-old was "unable to contain Doku", compelling Valverde to provide assistance.

He was also portrayed as looking "somewhat nervous and imprecise in possession". Whilst this would mark a departure from his usual display, Alexander-Arnold received praise for an astute chip moments before his 83rd-minute withdrawal.

Alexander-Arnold was up against Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku(Image: Alberto Gardin/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)

Sport

The Spanish outlet gave him a 6 out of 10 in their player ratings. Sport depicted the defender as "one of Madrid's key players in building attacks".

Nevertheless, the analysis highlighted that he "struggled defensively" against Doku. The City attacker was lauded for his offensive thrust against the ex-Liverpool man.

Sport indicated that Alexander-Arnold's performance elevated in the second period. Meanwhile, Doku's impact diminished following an encouraging opening.

Trent Alexander-Arnold started for Real Madrid against Manchester City in the Champions League(Image: NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Marca

Marca similarly rated the full-back a 6 out of 10 for his showing. The piece mirrored comparable concerns about Alexander-Arnold grappling with Doku during the first half.

Their verdict on his initial 45 minutes stated: "Too much work on defense to shine on offence."

That shifted following the break, though.

The outlet implied he established "a truce" with Doku and strengthened defensively. Alexander-Arnold was acknowledged for becoming "more solid" after weathering the winger's initial supremacy.