Trent Alexander-Arnold Injured Early as Real Madrid Edge Marseille in Champions League Thriller

Real Madrid's Champions League campaign got off to a dramatic start with a 2–1 victory over Marseille at the Santiago Bernabéu on September 16, 2025. However, the win was marred by an early setback as right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold was forced off in the fifth minute after sustaining a thigh injury.

The England international, who ï Madrid from Liverpool in the summer, appeared to pull up while tracking back and was immediately replaced by Dani Carvajal. His condition will be assessed further, with the club expected to release an update in the coming days.

Despite the disruption, Real Madrid rallied after conceding an early goal to Marseille’s Tim Weah in the 22nd minute. Kylian Mbappé leveled the score with a penalty in the 28th minute and later sealed the win with another spot-kick in the 81st minute.

The match was not without controversy, as Carvajal—Alexander-Arnold’s replacement—was sent off in the 71st minute, leaving Madrid to defend their lead with ten men. Marseille dominated possession but failed to capitalize on their numerical advantage.

Madrid’s victory places them in a strong position in Group Stage play, though Alexander-Arnold’s injury could pose selection challenges for manager Xabi Alonso in upcoming fixtures.