Courtois claims Alexander-Arnold a ‘nightmare’ for goalkeepers after strong Club World Cup showing

Thibaut Courtois has heaped praise on new team-mate Trent Alexander-Arnold, describing the Real Madrid right-back as a “nightmare” to deal with and hailing his crossing as “unbelievable.”

The England international, who recently made the switch from Liverpool, registered his first assist for Madrid with an exquisite cross for Gonzalo Garcia in their 1-0 victory over Juventus at the Club World Cup.

As a result, his new playing partners, particularly Courtois, have heaped praise on the defender.

“He could have provided several assists already in the tournament,” Courtois said of Alexander-Arnold. “In training, his striking is unbelievable, his free-kicks and corners are on another level. I don’t think I’ve seen anyone with his quality in striking and crossing.”

Alexander-Arnold joined Madrid shortly before the start of the tournament in the United States and has featured in all of their matches so far, impressing in both his natural right-back role and in midfield.

Courtois admitted he’s still adjusting to playing behind such an adventurous full-back.

Courtois is loving being on the same side as Trent Alexander-Arnold ❤️🤝 pic.twitter.com/O2ABCMhXOn

— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) July 2, 2025

“As a goalkeeper, he’s a nightmare at times,” Courtois added. “He keeps you on your toes and forces you to work hard to make stops. He makes us improve.”

Real Madrid are set to face Borussia Dortmund in the Club World Cup quarter-finals this Sunday in New Jersey. So far, they’ve managed to avoid Brazilian sides Palmeiras and Fluminense, both of whom remain in the competition.

When asked about the quality of South American teams, Courtois dismissed any doubts over their competitiveness.

“We who know football never doubted their level. If you believe four tweeters who think the level is sh*t, you’re wrong,” he said.

“We, who understand football, know that Brazilian teams are good… and not that European teams are the best. I believe that’s how it is, the level is high and that’s shown in every match. We’re having a lot of good and interesting matches to watch, and we have to keep working so that, God willing, we can reach the final.”

Madrid have also benefited from the emergence of 21-year-old Garcia, who has stepped up in the absence of Kylian Mbappe, recently sidelined due to gastroenteritis.

“I didn’t expect him to score three goals in four games but I knew that he would work well,” said head coach Xabi Alonso. “I have confidence in him and he is earning that trust.”

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