Report: Real Madrid’s £8.4m Bet on Liverpool Star Already Paying Off | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s Transfer Gamble Already Reaping Rewards

When Real Madrid moved swiftly to secure a deal worth around £8.4 million for Liverpool’s departing full-back, the timing raised plenty of questions. With just a month remaining before he could have joined for free, the Spanish club opted to act early — driven by a desire to integrate him ahead of their Club World Cup campaign.

Liverpool benefitted financially, salvaging a fee for a player they were poised to lose for nothing. But now, less than a month into his new chapter, Madrid’s decision already appears vindicated. The defender has started every game in the tournament and recently delivered a pinpoint assist that helped propel Madrid past Juventus and into the quarter-finals — a goal that alone added £10 million to Madrid’s tournament earnings.

Former international Gael Clichy summed it up best on Dazn: “You don’t have time in football… this competition has given Real Madrid and Trent extra time.”

Adapting Under Alonso’s Tactical Shift

Since Xabi Alonso took the reins at Madrid, the tactical shape has seen a notable shift to a flexible 5-3-2 or 3-5-2 formation. For a player transitioning from a very different system in the Premier League, the adjustment has been sharp but promising.

Early signs showed vulnerabilities. In his debut against Al-Hilal, the full-back struggled defensively, losing possession and failing in most of his duels. He looked more secure against Pachuca but truly found rhythm in the 3-0 win over Salzburg, playing in a wing-back role and contributing to Madrid’s third goal.

“He has to be excited by what is to come,” said Clichy, while John Obi Mikel added, “It’s good to see him settle. We knew it would take him time.”

Defensively, questions remain. Across his appearances, duel success has been inconsistent. Yet, his attacking value is increasingly evident — particularly in games where Madrid have dominated possession.

Garcia Rising as Mbappe’s Stand-in

While much of the focus has been on Madrid’s new arrival at the back, it’s a young forward who has turned heads at the other end of the pitch. With Kylian Mbappe recovering from illness, Madrid’s frontline has been led by an emerging talent who has taken full advantage of his opportunity.

Photo: IMAGO

Three goals in four Club World Cup matches make him the club’s top scorer in the tournament. His header against Juventus — from the new right-back’s delivery — was clinical and emblematic of his performances throughout the campaign.

Madrid boss Alonso didn’t shy away from comparisons: “He has Raul qualities in his movements.” The club’s supporters are now seeing a player who blends positional awareness with finishing instinct — much like the legendary Raul Gonzalez.

Youth development expert Guillem Balague added context: “He was part of the youth team that won the treble in 2022/23… now he is a first teamer.”

Real Madrid’s Forward Planning on Display

Madrid’s strategy looks more layered than a simple squad strengthening exercise. Alonso is building something that leans on tactical evolution, youth development, and positional versatility. The decision to pay for the early release of Liverpool’s full-back wasn’t just about the Club World Cup — it was about acclimatising a key player to a new system and a new culture.

In return, they’ve not only seen growing comfort from the defender but also watched a new number nine blossom into a player capable of challenging even marquee signings for a starting spot.

Madrid now prepare to face either Borussia Dortmund or Monterrey in the quarter-finals, with potential tournament earnings reaching up to £125 million. But beyond the money, what’s clear is the direction — a blend of calculated risk, tactical clarity, and youth promotion that is beginning to bear fruit.