Alexander-Arnold: I've Always Admired Mourinho

Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has expressed his admiration for new head coach Jose Mourinho, calling it a "privilege" to work with the Portuguese tactician. Alexander-Arnold believes Mourinho can guide the club to silverware.

Mourinho returned to the Spanish capital in June, marking his first stint since leaving the "Royal Club" in 2013 to rejoin Chelsea. Real Madrid will be hoping he is the right man to bring success after a trophy-less campaign last season.

"I've always admired him. I've played against him a few times, and now it's a privilege to work with him and his staff. It's intense. The principles and the level of demands are very high, so I'm looking forward to getting to know him better and learning a lot from him. We are all ready and eager to learn new things and improve. I'm sure he will teach us a lot and help us win trophies this year," Alexander-Arnold stated.

The English international, who arrived from Liverpool last summer, endured an injury-plagued first season in Madrid and wasn't a regular starter for Real. He was subsequently overlooked for the World Cup in North America. However, the departure of captain Dani Carvajal opens up an opportunity for Alexander-Arnold to establish himself as the first-choice right-back.

"I haven't played in a long time, so it's good to finally be back and lay the groundwork for a successful season," said the 27-year-old defender. Real Madrid will kick off their La Liga campaign on August 22 with an away fixture against Espanyol.