Bad news for Alexander-Arnold—he suffers his first setback as a Real Madrid player.

Denied his iconic No. 66 jersey, the former Liverpool star must now choose a new number to begin his journey at the Bernabéu.

Bad News for Alexander-Arnold: A Harsh Start to His Real Madrid Chapter
Trent Alexander-Arnold has officially joined Real Madrid after months of rumors and speculation. The move marks a major step in the right-back’s career after shining for years at Liverpool. While the signing has thrilled Madrid fans, Arnold is already facing his first significant challenge in Spain.

Known around the world for his symbolic No. 66 shirt at Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold won’t be allowed to wear the same number at Real Madrid due to LaLiga regulations. According to league rules, players can only wear numbers ranging from 1 to 25, leaving the 66 out of the equation. As a result, his options are restricted, and he’ll be forced to select a new shirt number for his debut season in Madrid.

This has come as a personal blow for the 26-year-old, who wore the No. 66 with pride throughout his entire professional career. Having to part ways with such a meaningful number, Arnold now faces the emotional and symbolic task of starting fresh at his new club.

A Tough Goodbye to a Historic Number

After spending nine seasons at Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold leaves behind a rich legacy as one of the world’s top right-backs. While great success likely awaits him at Real Madrid, the number change was an unexpected twist. The No. 66 became a part of his identity, and letting it go won’t be easy.

Nevertheless, his maturity and professionalism—qualities he’s long demonstrated—give Real Madrid confidence that he’ll adapt quickly. And in many ways, choosing a new number might serve as the beginning of an even greater legacy in Spain.

A New Chapter at the Bernabéu

Despite the early hurdle, Alexander-Arnold remains fully committed to his Real Madrid adventure. Now, with a fresh jersey and a new team, he’ll aim to write a new chapter—one that could surpass even his storied years at Anfield.