Trent Alexander-Arnold was benched for Real Madrid's derby clash with Atletico Madrid on Sunday after turning up late to a training session.
The England international had appeared to be finding his feet at the Bernabeu following a challenging start to life in the Spanish capital, with his performance in the Champions League victory over Manchester City marking a high point.
However, according to The Athletic, his tardiness cost him his place in the starting XI, with veteran Dani Carvajal selected at right-back instead.
Alexander-Arnold was eventually brought on as a substitute for the final quarter of an hour.
Real Madrid emerged victorious with a 3-2 win in a fiercely contested encounter.
Vinicius Junior proved the difference-maker, netting twice for the hosts, while Federico Valverde also found the back of the net.
Atletico refused to go quietly, with Ademola Lookman and Nahuel Molina both scoring to keep the visitors in contention.
Trent Alexander-Arnold has struggled to adapt to life at Real Madrid since his move from Liverpool
| GETTYThe match ended on a nervy note for Alvaro Arbeloa's side after Valverde received a late dismissal, forcing the home team to see out the remaining minutes with 10 men.
Despite the tension, Real held firm to secure all three points, keeping them four points behind league leaders Barcelona.
The benching capped off a miserable week for the 27-year-old, who had already been omitted from Thomas Tuchel's 35-man England squad announced on Friday.
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Real Madrid beat Atletico Madrid on Sunday
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His chances of making the final World Cup roster now appear remote, with Tuchel describing the decision as purely "sporting" and opting instead for Tino Livramento, Jarell Quansah and Djed Spence as his right-back options.
Speaking last week, he said: "It's a tough decision, and Trent is a big name - a huge talent with an impressive career. I know what he can give us, but I've opted for others.
"We were very good in September, October, and November, and I know what Trent can offer. I've also faced challenges when he's played against my teams.
"The players in camp at right full-back must push to earn their spot on the plane to the World Cup."
Reece James, typically England's preferred choice in that position, remains sidelined through injury.
Tuchel is expected to reduce his current selection ahead of friendlies against Uruguay and Japan during the international break.
Trent Alexander-Arnold has made just one appearance for England since Thomas Tuchel took charge | PAAlexander-Arnold's Real Madrid colleague Jude Bellingham did receive a call-up to the squad.
Since departing Liverpool on a free transfer last summer following the expiration of his contract, Alexander-Arnold has featured 21 times for Real Madrid across all competitions this campaign.
Of those appearances, 14 have been starts, with half a dozen coming in Europe's premier club competition.
His maiden season in Spain has been far from straightforward, with the defender contending with both fitness setbacks and the inevitable adjustment period that accompanies such a significant move.