Trent Alexander-Arnold, the 27-year-old Real Madrid right-back, just dropped a world-class assist in England’s recent Nations League win over the Czech Republic. It was a moment that absolutely has to force head coach Thomas Tuchel to finally offer him the trust he’s always seemed to lack. Seriously, after what went down, how can you not?
Tuchel’s Doubts Have Been Wild
Let’s be real, Tuchel’s apparent lack of faith in Trent has been the constant narrative, the defining feature of his time in charge of England. This guy won a Premier League title with Liverpool, then moved to Real Madrid, and still hadn’t started for England since October 2024 when interim manager Lee Carsley played him at left-back, and he even scored in a 3-1 Nations League win over Finland! He was completely ignored for the World Cup squad last summer, even with right-back being, let’s just say, a *cursed* spot for Tuchel. It felt like no matter the questions Tuchel had about that position, Trent was never going to be the answer. So, when Tuchel actually recalled Alexander-Arnold for this four-game Nations League camp, it was a massive shock after how sidelined he’d been.
One Assist Changes Everything
Against that whole backdrop, Alexander-Arnold finally got his start against the Czech Republic in Prague. He was the ninth right-back Tuchel had used in 24 games. England was still trying to recover from that 3-2 loss to World Cup holders Spain at Wembley, and in Prague, they were toiling against 10-man Czechs after Pavel Sulc got sent off in just 25 minutes. Then, two minutes after the break, “Trent” as his shirt says, absolutely delivered. He made a 70-yard run, regained possession when the move broke down, and then unleashed a magnificent right-foot delivery. It floated in a teasing arc, slicing through three Czech defenders, right to Anthony Gordon, who scored with a stooping header that looked way easier than it was. Gordon, the grateful beneficiary, said he makes that run constantly and “only a certain number of players have that ability, technique and bravery to be willing to make the mistake trying that pass. That’s why he’s so good.”
What’s Next for Trent?
Tuchel was delighted, telling BBC Radio 5 Live, “He did very well. He had an excellent assist. Overall, like everyone, he was professional, top attitude and one decisive action.” He added that they “never doubted that he can produce these kinds of assists” and that the “deeper position in the second half suited him more.” Look, sure, those defensive questions about Trent might still be there for Tuchel, and they weren’t exactly put to the test against 10 men, but these few seconds showed his unique selling point clear as day. He absolutely deserves the opportunity to prove those defensive answers, and frankly, Tuchel needs to give it to him. This Nations League camp is far from over, and every moment Trent is on the field, the pressure’s on Tuchel to use him right.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by BBC Sport.
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