Trent Alexander-Arnold delivered his strongest performance of Real Madrid’s pre-season so far, playing a decisive role in the 4-1 victory over Leganes just as new signing Denzel Dumfries prepares to challenge him for the right-back position.

As highlighted by AS, competition for the starting role has officially begun, and the England international made it clear that he has no intention of giving up his place without a fight.

Trent finished the match with two assists and helped create another goal, reminding everyone of the attacking quality that made him one of Europe’s best full-backs.

A season to leave behind

Trent heads into the new campaign determined to bounce back after a frustrating first season in Madrid.

Both individually and collectively, things failed to go according to plan. Real Madrid ended the campaign without silverware, while injuries restricted the defender to fewer than 2,000 minutes.

Although he still managed five assists, he never established himself as an undisputed starter and was ultimately left out of England’s World Cup squad by Thomas Tuchel.

The summer has provided an opportunity to reset, but also a new challenge.

Dumfries raises the competition

Following Dani Carvajal’s departure, Real Madrid could have opted for a young academy player or a lower-profile replacement at right-back.

Instead, they signed Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan for €20 million. The Dutch international arrives with considerable experience and is expected to compete immediately for a starting place rather than simply provide squad depth.

Rather than shy away from the challenge, Trent appears determined to respond on the pitch.

A performance full of quality

After looking rusty in the opening pre-season match against Alcorcon, the Englishman produced a much sharper display against Leganes.

His first major contribution came with a superb long-range pass from deep inside his own half, perfectly picking out Gonzalo Garcia’s run and setting the striker through on goal for Real Madrid’s opener.

Later in the match, Trent’s powerful effort led to the rebound that Mastantuono converted for the team’s third goal. He then delivered another dangerous cross that eventually resulted in Pulido turning the ball into his own net for the fourth.

Two assists and involvement in another goal underlined exactly what he brings to Jose Mourinho’s side: creativity, vision and elite delivery from wide areas.

Still room for improvement

The performance was not flawless. Leganes found success down Trent’s side on one occasion, with Naim beating him before firing an excellent strike into the net after the ball clipped the post.

The visitors also enjoyed some joy attacking the space behind the Real Madrid full-back.

Even so, it was an encouraging display overall, particularly considering the timing.

With Dumfries watching from the ‘ box after joining up with the squad earlier this week, Trent delivered exactly the kind of response Mourinho would have wanted to see.