Trent Alexander-Arnold makes Real Madrid La Liga debut in narrow win over Osasuna

Trent Alexander-Arnold made his first La Liga appearance as Real Madrid began the season with a hard-fought victory over Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu, Sport360NG reports.

The England international, who arrived from Liverpool this summer, had already featured at the FIFA Club World Cup under new coach Xabi Alonso, but this marked his league debut in front of the home crowd. He was substituted in the 68th minute to a warm ovation, with Dani Carvajal coming on in his place.

Kylian Mbappé netted the decisive goal from the penalty spot, calmly sending Sergio Herrera the wrong way after being brought down inside the area. It was enough to secure three points in Alonso’s first domestic fixture as Madrid manager.

The hosts controlled much of the contest and created several opportunities to extend their lead. New signing Dean Huijsen, who arrived from Bournemouth, and Eder Militão both tested Herrera with efforts from distance, while further debuts were handed to left-back Álvaro Carreras, a £43m addition from Benfica, and teenage midfielder Franco Mastantuono, signed from River Plate for £38.5m.

Osasuna finished with 10 men after Abel Bretones was shown a late red card for a reckless challenge on Gonçalo García.