Xabi Alonso's new formation for Trent Alexander-Arnold experiment could end one Real Madrid career

Xabi Alonso's new formation to help improve Trent Alexander-Arnold could leave one Real Madrid star's future at the club in serious doubt.

Following the defender's lacklustre performances against both Al Hilal and Pachuca, Real Madrid manager Alonso decided to change things up for Alexander-Arnold during the Club World Cup clash against Austrian side RB Salzburg.

Instead of Real Madrid's typical 4-3-3 formation, Alonso's starting lineup used a 3-4-1-2 formation, allowing Alexander-Arnold to excel as a right wing-back.

Off the back of the former Liverpool star's much improved performance, it appears that Real Madrid could be considering sticking with this new formation going forward in the Club World Cup and beyond.

But in doing so, it could put the future of one star player at risk, potentially ending his career at the Spanish club.

Trent Alexander-Arnold impressed in his third match for Real Madrid. (Image: Getty)

With Alonso's new formation, several players who were once believed to be a key part of Real Madrid's starting team now find themselves on the bench for most games.

As players like Vinicius Jr, Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde all nailed parts of the team that will likely see little rotation, other midfielders and forwards may struggle to break into the starting lineup.

The likes of Arda Guler, Eduardo Camavinga and new signing Franco Mastantuono will likely find themselves competing with several others for one spot in the starting team each match.

But more than anyone else, it appears that Rodrygo may struggle to carve out a place in the new formation, as he will now be competing with Mbappe, Bellingham and Vinicius for a spot in the three most attacking spots in the squad.

Rodrygo has been linked with Arsenal this summer. (Image: Getty)

It therefore comes as no surprise that reports have suggested that the Brazilian is holding out on signing a new contract with the La Liga side, and will consider moving elsewhere over the summer.

Should the 24-year-old decide he would like to be transferred elsewhere ahead of next season, then it is almost certain that several of the biggest clubs in the world will be interested.

As it stands, it appears that Arsenal are the favourites to secure Rodrygo's signature, should he become available.