Real Madrid moved ahead of Barcelona in the La Liga title race after an emphatic 4-1 win over Real Sociedad. Alvaro Arbeloa's men secured all three points with a statement-making victory which has put the pressure on their El Clasico rivals who face Girona on Monday.
Gonzalo Garcia opened the scoring in the fifth minute with a fine finish when he got on the end of a fantastic Trent Alexander-Arnold cross. A clumsy foul from Dean Huijsen allowed Mikel Oyarzabal to equalize from the penalty spot in the 21st minute.
Madrid won a spot-kick of their own just four minutes later and Vinicius Junior clamly slotted home. Federico Valverde netted his first La Liga goal of the season in the 31st minute before Vinicius bagged another penalty in the 48th minute.
Several players shined for Los Blancos ahead of the first leg of their UEFA Champions League playoff against Benfica. But Trent Alexander-Arnold was the star of the show.
Real Madrid 4-1 Real Sociedad: Trent is back just in time
There has been much said about Alexander-Arnold since he joined Madrid last summer. He became villainised by Liverpool fans after opting to leave his boyhood club when his contract expired.
It's been difficult start for the English right-back who has dealt with recurring injuries. He made just his 13th appearance of the season last night at the Bernabeu.
Alexander-Arnold reminded his doubters just how talented he is with a sensational performance. His playmaking brilliance was on display including for Garcia's opener when he sent a David Beckham-like cross into the box.
The 27-year-old created one big chance, made two key passes and completed eight of his 11 long ball attempts. He was also assured in defense, making one interception and it was just what the former Liverpool man needed amid scrutiny over his start in the Spanish capital.
It begs to question where Madrid would be had the England international been available throughout the season. His return could be the difference between Los Blancos winning the title at the expense of Barca come May.
Arbeloa raves about 'intelligent' Trent
Alexander-Arnold's performance earned a glowing verdict from Arbeloa, who talked up his contribution on the night. The Spanish coach told reporters after the win over Sociedad (via Madrid Zone):
"Trent is a very, very intelligent boy. He understood very quickly what we needed from him. He's not your typical full-back that just holds the width, he can actually come inside and create, he can change positions, his passing is insane. Trent is so good."
🚨 Alvaro Arbeloa: "Trent is a very, very intelligent boy.
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) February 14, 2026
He understood very quickly what we needed from him.
He's not your typical full-back that just holds the width, he can actually come inside and create, he can change positions, his passing is insane.
Trent is so good." pic.twitter.com/SiV78M5xeH
Ridiculous rumors in past months had suggested Arbeloa wasn't a fan of Alexander-Arnold and that he told the Englishman he wasn't in his plans. Not only does that comment refute this but it also makes clear how important he will be moving forward.