Trent Alexander-Arnold's stuttering start to life at Real Madrid has continued after the club confirmed he has sustained a quad injury.

The defender was replaced by Raul Asencio in the 55th minute of Madrid's 3-0 win over Athletic Club on Wednesday, which moved Los Blancos within one point of LaLiga leaders Barcelona.

Alexander-Arnold assisted Kylian Mbappe’s opener at San Mames, marking his first assist in the competition since his transfer from Liverpool during the summer.

The 27-year-old has made just eight appearances in the league this season after also suffering a hamstring injury earlier in the campaign.

On Thursday, Madrid confirmed the nature of the injury, though they did not offer an update on when Alexander-Arnold is likely to return to action. 

A statement read: “Following tests carried out today on our player Trent Alexander-Arnold by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with a muscle injury in the rectus femoris of his left quadriceps.

“His recovery will be monitored.”

Alexander-Arnold started each of Madrid’s last four games in all competitions, his best run of starts under Xabi Alonso so far.

He also made a positive impact in their 4-3 Champions League win over Olympiacos, completing 100% of his passes in the final third (9/9) while winning three of his four duels and both of his attempted tackles.