Xabi Alonso's new Real Madrid have started their participation in the Club World Cup on a strong note. After a very solid group stage, the white team eliminated Juventus in the round of 16 without complications. Now Borussia Dortmund awaits, in what promises to be an exciting clash.
The new signings are performing above the desired level, and the more experienced players are also stepping up. The atmosphere is positive and the locker room exudes confidence. Everything seems to be going smoothly for Xabi Alonso's side.
Franco Mastantuono, Real Madrid's star signing
Even so, not everything is good news for the Madrid club. Away from the media spotlight of the Club World Cup, there is some concern in the offices at Bernabéu. A delicate problem is looming with the star signing of the summer, Franco Mastantuono.
Real Madrid have paid more than €60 million ($60 million) to secure his services. However, his current situation is starting to raise significant doubts within the club. Franco Mastantuono's role is unclear and the first voices against his signing are already being heard.
Xabi Alonso can't find a place for Franco Mastantuono
Franco Mastantuono will join Real Madrid after the Club World Cup, but he'll do so at a clear disadvantage. His teammates will have already spent more than a month working under Xabi Alonso and assimilating the new concepts. Without a doubt, the biggest challenge the Argentine will have to overcome is the system Xabi Alonso uses: a 5-3-2 in which he doesn't fit in any of the positions.
That formation prioritizes defensive solidity and quick attacks. Xabi Alonso has decided that his Real Madrid will play without an attacking midfielder, but also without wingers. Precisely the two positions in which Franco Mastantuono feels most comfortable.
Xabi Alonso changes his plans and leaves Franco Mastantuono KO
One of the reasons why Franco Mastantuono agreed to sign for Real Madrid was his conversation with Xabi Alonso. The coach assured him that he would be important from day one. In fact, he let him know that his plan is for him to occupy the right flank of the white team's attack.
However, after what has been seen in the Club World Cup, the most likely scenario is that Xabi Alonso will keep using the 5-3-2 that is bringing such good results. Rodrygo, for example, has already been a victim of the new formation, and the next one looks to be Franco Mastantuono.
That's why there are already some authoritative voices beginning to question the operation. They believe that paying more than €60 million ($60 million) for a 17-year-old who has no place is a mistake. In the long term he may perform, but in the short term he has neither a place nor competitive rhythm.
Franco Mastantuono's camp assure that the process will be long and that he needs time. At Bernabéu there is impatience. The media pressure grows with each week without participation.
Xabi Alonso will have to make a decision soon
Once the Club World Cup ends, the coach will have to decide what to do with the young Argentine. He can loan him out so he gains experience or change the formation to give him minutes. For now, the balance is tipping toward the first option.
Franco Mastantuono has arrived with high expectations on his shoulders. As of today, his fit in the project is unclear. Real Madrid and Xabi Alonso have a new challenge on their hands.