Alexander-Arnold’s move to Real Madrid has not yet produced the seamless impact many expected. He registered five assists in 30 appearances during the 2025-26 campaign, while starting only 14 La Liga matches.
Muscular and ankle injuries also disrupted his rhythm, making it harder to build momentum under a new club manager and a new England boss. Since Tuchel’s arrival, Alexander-Arnold has played only 26 minutes for the national team, appearing late against Andorra in June 2025.
Mills’ argument is not that the right-back lacks attacking ability. Rather, he believes repeated omissions under different managers point towards questions about role, reliability or tactical fit.
Reece James appears to be Tuchel’s preferred option when fit, offering defensive strength, leadership and the ability to operate in several roles. Tino Livramento had also been part of the competition before injury ruled him out.
Tuchel’s decision to select Trevoh Chalobah, primarily a centre-back who can play wider, underlined the importance placed on defensive security. Alexander-Arnold’s attacking range remains elite, but his defensive vulnerabilities have long been part of the debate.
That leaves him needing more than spectacular passing or set-piece quality. He must show sustained fitness, defensive consistency and a willingness to contribute even when he is not first choice.
The next storyline will come at Real Madrid, where a strong run of performances could reopen the England door. For now, Mills’ theory ensures Alexander-Arnold’s absence will be discussed as much in terms of personality and role acceptance as footballing ability.