The long-awaited transfer of Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool to Real Madrid has finally been completed. After months of negotiations, the Spanish giants confirmed the signing of the English right-back, widely regarded as one of Liverpool’s best talents in recent years. However, fans were surprised to learn that Alexander-Arnold won’t be able to wear his iconic No. 66 shirt at Real Madrid. This restriction comes from La Liga’s strict squad numbering rules, which only permit first-team players to wear numbers between 1 and 25. As a result, Alexander-Arnold’s famous No. 66, which he has worn since his academy days, is off-limits in Spain. The rule also prevents clubs from retiring shirt numbers, meaning he must select a new digit for his Real Madrid career.
Alexander-Arnold’s rise from Liverpool’s academy to world-class right-back has been remarkable. During his time at Anfield, he made 354 appearances and recorded 64 Premier League assists—the most by any defender in the league’s history. His move to Real Madrid, secured for €10 million, allows him to join early and participate in the FIFA Club World Cup. With No. 66 unavailable, speculation has grown over which number he will choose. At Liverpool, he previously wore 2, 15, 17, and 18, but some of these are already taken at Real Madrid—Dani Carvajal has No. 2, and Arda Güler wears No. 15.
This leaves options like 17 or 18, which may free up if Lucas Vázquez departs after the Club World Cup. Other possibilities include No. 12 or No. 24, both currently unassigned. However, No. 12 holds special significance in Spanish football, often reserved as a symbolic tribute to fans—the “12th man.” This tradition, along with its past association with club legend Marcelo, may deter Alexander-Arnold from selecting it. Internationally, Alexander-Arnold has worn multiple numbers for England, including 2, 7, 8, and even 10, showing his adaptability. Real Madrid’s coaching staff, led by Carlo Ancelotti and Xabi Alonso, will likely help him transition smoothly into his new role and number.
Beyond the shirt number debate, Alexander-Arnold’s move signifies Real Madrid’s ambition to rebuild with young, dynamic talent. For Liverpool fans, his departure marks the end of an era, leaving them to wonder how both clubs will fare in the coming seasons. As Alexander-Arnold begins this new chapter, all eyes will be on his adaptation to La Liga and his impact alongside Jude Bellingham and the rest of the squad. One thing is clear—the shirt number discussion is just the start of his next big story in Spain.