Xabi Alonso is now the new coach of Real Madrid. He will arrive on the bench with great enthusiasm and a clear idea. He wants to build a young team, but with experience. His plan involves relying on certain key players and signings that strengthen the squad.
One of the most important points for Alonso was keeping a player he considers essential. His request to Florentino Pérez was clear: he wanted a key player to continue at the club for the next season. However, this decision has not succeeded.
The sports management and Florentino have other plans, and this first disagreement marks the beginning of a stage with visible tensions. Xabi Alonso sees how some of his requests remain hanging in the air, without a favorable response.
Modric, the symbol of experience who stays or says goodbye
A hot topic has been Luka Modric. The Croatian is a leader in the locker room, and Xabi Alonso considers his experience vital for the project. This was confirmed by Miguel Ángel Toribio on Radio MARCA: "Xabi Alonso expressly requested that Modric continue in the squad."
However, the reality coming from the club is different. Miguel Ángel Díaz, on El Partidazo de COPE, announced that Modric will not continue at Real Madrid after the Club World Cup.
Modric, at 39 years old, hoped to continue playing at the club that has been his home for so many years. But the club has not offered him a renewal. Initially, on Saturday he will say goodbye to the fans in the last league match against Real Sociedad.
This decision was not made by Xabi Alonso, but by the management. The future coach has not had a say in this matter. Unless the club changes its mind, Modric will leave.
A clash of visions between coach and club
This case of Modric is just the first public clash between Alonso and Florentino Pérez. The lack of agreement on such a symbolic player shows that important decisions are still made by the club.
Xabi Alonso wanted to start his tenure with some control over the squad, but Real Madrid keeps the absolute command. It is no secret that the club wants a deep renewal and bets on youth.
However, Alonso believes that experience is key to guiding the younger players. This conflict has only just begun.
What to expect from the future at Santiago Bernabéu?
Real Madrid faces a new stage with many uncertainties. Xabi Alonso has the difficult task of coaching a team in transition. For now, his desires clash with the club's management.
Modric's departure may affect the locker room, as he was a reference for everyone. The coach will have to look for alternatives to keep that leadership.