The news that Liverpool fans dreaded has been confirmed: Real Madrid are prepared to pursue Trent Alexander-Arnold in the January transfer window following recent Ballon d’Or controversies and their 4-0 loss to Barcelona.

Following Real Madrid’s unexpected decision on Monday, Trent Alexander-Arnold of Liverpool may rethink a potential move to the club next summer.

In a recent interview with Sky Sports, the Liverpool right-back was asked to choose among winning the Champions League, the World Cup, or the Ballon d’Or. To the surprise of many, the 25-year-old opted for the individual accolade, a choice Jamie Carragher deemed “strange.”

Real Madrid’s stance on the Ballon d’Or might influence Alexander-Arnold’s aspirations. During Sky Sports’ coverage of the Arsenal vs. Liverpool match, Carragher remarked, “My first thought when I read that is you’re not winning the Ballon d’Or as a right-back for Liverpool,” adding, “Ballon d’Or winners typically play for Real Madrid or Barcelona.”

While Liverpool seems to be looking for a potential successor for Alexander-Arnold, his commitment to the team has been recognized and appreciated by fans.

Supporters of Liverpool are hopeful he will remain after Real Madrid decided to boycott the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris on Monday. Following a heavy loss to Barcelona in El Clasico, the club initially planned to attend in support of Vini Jr., who was a contender for the award.

However, when it became clear that the Brazilian would not win, Real Madrid opted not to send a delegation, making a notable statement.

According to *Marca*, a Spanish outlet that typically favors Real Madrid, the club was incensed and now considers the Ballon d’Or “irrelevant,” marking the strongest opposition the club has ever expressed toward the awards.

This isn’t the first time Real Madrid has protested either; Cristiano Ronaldo skipped the ceremony in 2018 when he did not win (Sky Italy/One Football).

Given Real’s strong reaction and negative sentiment towards the award, Alexander-Arnold may realize that joining the club next summer could hinder his chances for the Ballon d’Or.