Xabi Alonso doesn't want anyone to be left out, but he knows that not everyone will fit in Real Madrid for the 2025-26 season. The new coach has arrived with clear ideas and hasn't wasted any time sharing them with Florentino Pérez.
He needs specific profiles. He's willing to make decisions that won't please everyone.
Sports planning is moving forward firmly. The pillars of the new project are already known: Dani Carvajal will return as the starting right back, with Alexander-Arnold as a top-level utility player.
In the center, Militao and Huijsen are the chosen pair. The young Italian center-back has convinced everyone.
On the left, Carreras has come to stay. The former Benfica player is Xabi Alonso's big bet to occupy the left flank with depth, intelligence, and physical display. But that's where the first conflict arises.
One spot, two names
With Carreras as the starter, there are too many players. The backup spot is being contested by Ferland Mendy and Fran García.
The coach doesn't want to have three left backs on the roster. The decision, according to reports, has already been communicated to the president.
"One of the two is surplus," Xabi Alonso reportedly said. He won't take sides. He'll accept whatever the market dictates.
The club will be responsible for analyzing offers and deciding which of the two will leave. The coach is clear: he wants one backup, not two.
If a good offer comes in for Mendy, he'll leave. If it's Fran who draws interest, he will too.
The board is evaluating salary, market value, and sporting fit. What is clear is that all three won't continue.
The surprise with Alexander-Arnold
Beyond the left back position, the big news comes in midfield. Xabi Alonso sees untapped potential in Trent Alexander-Arnold. He wants him as a defensive midfielder, as Tchouaméni's replacement.
The Englishman has already played in that position for Liverpool and the England national team. His technique, vision, and long passing make him a perfect fit to start play from the back. That's what Xabi is looking for: more ball progression, like in the Toni Kroos era.
Tchouaméni won't lose prominence, but he will lose his untouchable role. There will be rotation. There will be competition.
Trent, if he fits in, could become one of the tactical keys for the new Madrid.
Florentino takes note
Florentino Pérez has listened carefully to all the requests. He likes Xabi Alonso's judgment. Although it's a minor restructuring, there are decisions that carry weight.
Sacrificing one between Mendy and Fran García isn't easy. Nor is repositioning a star like Alexander-Arnold.
The new coach is clear: he wants a team tailored to him, with no improvisation or dead weight. The revolution isn't media-driven, but it could be very effective.