Real Madrid just spent €20 million to create a problem most clubs would love to have. The Spanish giants confirmed the signing of Dutch right-back Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan on July 5, locking him into a contract through 2030. The catch: Trent Alexander-Arnold already plays that position.
Two right-backs, two very different skill sets
Alexander-Arnold, who arrived in Madrid during the summer 2025 window following Dani Carvajal’s departure, is one of football’s most creative defenders. His passing range from the back is closer to a midfielder’s than a traditional full-back’s.
Dumfries is the opposite archetype. The Dutchman built his reputation at Inter Milan as a physically dominant, defensively reliable presence. He wins aerial duels, he tracks runners, and he provides the kind of structural solidity that lets more attacking players take risks.
Mourinho’s potential tactical solutions
