Trent Alexander-Arnold returns from injury and could start for Real Madrid against Benfica | OneFootball

Trent Alexander-Arnold has recovered from injury and, like Kylian Mbappé, could be in contention for Real Madrid’s meeting with Benfica.

He came off the bench in last weekend’s win over Valencia and could make his first start since 3 December after a bright start with Madrid at the Club World Cup. AS reports that Madrid aim to have him in the XI for the Champions League play-off on 17 February.

With Álvaro Arbeloa’s side still taking shape after the coach’s January arrival, the full-back now has a chance to stake a claim for a starting place.

Even if Arbeloa opts for the experienced Dani Carvajal or youngster David Jiménez from the outset against Real Sociedad, Alexander-Arnold is expected to pick up important minutes in this decisive spell before facing Benfica.

The play-off ties are scheduled for 21 February in Lisbon and 28 February in Madrid. Real Madrid are the competition’s most successful club with 15 titles.

Source: Glorioso 1904