At Real Madrid, not everything revolves around reinforcements. The spotlight is on names like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Huijsen, Carreras, or Mastantuono. But there's another operation just as important or even more so underway: the internal clean-up.
Xabi Alonso has already taken charge. He hasn't wasted any time making it clear that he won't hesitate. He knows what he wants, but above all, he knows what he doesn't want.
That's why he has asked Florentino Pérez to act quickly. It's not about major media decisions. It's about coherence, order, and authority.
A blacklist that already has proper names
The Donostian coach has drawn up his first major list. It's not to sign, but to release. Xabi has informed Real Madrid's board of his desire to part ways with five footballers before the official start of the season.
They're players he doesn't count on. Whether due to level, tactical fit, or attitude issues. "I don't want to see them in my locker room," is said to be the message sent to Valdebebas.
Xabi's idea is to start work with a clean, committed group without burdens. For that, he needs these departures to be finalized before the players return from vacation.
First names on the exit ramp
The names leading the exit operation are well known. Rodrygo Goes, Endrick Felipe, David Alaba, Dani Ceballos, and Ferland Mendy.
Brahim could be added to the list depending on the offer Milan is willing to make for him.
Five players. Five firm decisions. A single instruction: out as soon as possible.
Florentino takes note and activates the machinery
The board hasn't taken the request badly. On the contrary. Xabi's clarity of ideas is appreciated.
Although some departures may be more complicated than others, work is already underway to place them in LaLiga teams or abroad.
The goal is for Real Madrid to be working with its final squad by August 1.
No noise. No uncertainties. No players who aren't one hundred percent committed.
A new era without concessions
Xabi Alonso hasn't come to experiment. He has come to return Real Madrid to the top. That starts with uncomfortable decisions.
Like this one. Five players singled out. A clear message: only those who will contribute stay here.