Michael Owen, one of the standout footballers of the Premier League in the 2000s, recently shared in interviews with The Athletic and The Guardian his experience at Real Madrid, a club he joined in 2004 after a successful spell at Liverpool. Now 42 years old, the former English striker revealed details about that period that left a lasting impact both on and off the field, and how his time in the Spanish capital changed the course of his professional career.

Owen, who won the Ballon d'Or in 2001, explained that while Real Madrid was always considered a "glamorous" club, he never imagined his destiny would lead him there. "When I first heard about Madrid's interest, I had mixed emotions. I was proud that such a club was interested in me. I felt flattered, but at the same time unsure. I spent almost a week turning over in my bed before making my decision," Owen said about his choice to move to the Spanish giant.

However, despite the excitement that the opportunity generated, Owen admitted that once he arrived, he began to feel like he had lost control of his career. "As soon as I decided to go to Madrid, I lost control of my career. It marked the end of the perception others had of me as a player. It’s true that it was the ‘Holy Grail’ for a footballer, but it was also a place where the pressure is so intense you can hardly breathe. It wasn’t what I had expected," confessed the Englishman, who played just one season at the club (2004-2005).

Owen emphasized that Madrid is a magical place for any footballer, but that the intensity of playing there deeply affected his life and career. "Madrid is a club with history, glamour, and everything a footballer dreams of, but when you get there, you realize it can be a place where you lose your essence. In my case, it cost me my professional life," he said.

Despite his less-than-ideal experience at Madrid, Owen expressed understanding toward players like Trent Alexander-Arnold, the current Liverpool star who has been linked to the Spanish club several times. Owen reflected on the possibility of Trent following in his footsteps and moving to Madrid: "Trent is a hero for Liverpool, he’s given everything for the club. If he decides to leave, no one should criticize him for wanting to experience something new. It’s a tough decision because Madrid has its magic, but people do see you differently once you’ve been there."

The former England international also revealed he maintains a close relationship with Alexander-Arnold and would be happy to offer advice if needed. "Trent knows what it involves. He has my number, and if he ever wants to talk about Madrid, I’ll be there to help him. Playing in that white kit, in that iconic stadium, and alongside his friend Jude Bellingham, must be tempting. But in the end, he has to weigh everything and make the best decision for his career," Owen added.

Meanwhile, Trent's future at Liverpool remains uncertain, but what is clear is that for many footballers, Real Madrid is still the dream destination… even if it doesn’t always live up to the expectations that come with it.