Why Trent Alexander-Arnold Will Wear No. 12 at Real Madrid Instead of His Iconic 66

Trent Alexander-Arnold was officially presented as a Real Madrid player today, marking the start of a new chapter following his departure from Liverpool. The 26-year-old England international will wear the No. 12 shirt at the Bernabéu, instead of his familiar No. 66, due to La Liga’s squad number regulations.

Under La Liga rules, first-team players are only permitted to wear jersey numbers between 1 and 25. Higher numbers are reserved for academy players, which means Alexander-Arnold’s preferred No. 66—worn throughout his Liverpool career—is not allowed in the Spanish top flight.

With 66 unavailable, Alexander-Arnold selected the No. 12 shirt. The choice is believed to hold some personal meaning, as the digits of 66 add up to 12. The number has also previously been worn by club legends such as Marcelo and Eduardo Camavinga, giving it a notable legacy at Real Madrid.

In another adjustment, his shirt will display "Trent" instead of "Alexander-Arnold". This change is in line with Spanish league preferences for shorter names on jerseys, and also helps simplify his identity on the pitch.

Trent’s debut in the No. 12 shirt is expected to take place at the upcoming Club World Cup in Miami, where he will begin writing a new chapter in his career with one of football’s most historic clubs.