Xabi Alonso doesn't beat around the bush. Since he arrived at Real Madrid, the Spanish coach has made it clear that he's looking to shape a midfield in his own style. His goal isn't just to have talent, but to have players capable of understanding the game deeply.
The transformation of certain footballers will be key in this strategy. Xabi Alonso believes in adaptation and patience. He knows that not all changes are immediate, and that some bets may seem risky at first.
The bet that surprises everyone
Between Jude Bellingham and Fede Valverde, many thought the coach's favorite would be one of them. However, Alonso has another card up his sleeve. He's a young player, talented and able to surprise both near the box and in deeper positions.
He's a footballer whose evolution is directly linked to Xabi Alonso's vision. His role will change significantly. It's no longer just about making an impact in matches offensively, but about understanding the game from the back, distributing, and connecting lines.
The transformation won't be easy
This player, who until recently shined near the box, will now have to adapt to a deeper role in midfield. His contribution on the field won't always be obvious. He'll get more tired, and there will be matches where his performance seems discreet to the spectator's eye.
However, Xabi Alonso fully trusts his ability to adapt. He believes that, with patience and work, he'll be able to complement Bellingham and form a double pivot that combines creativity and balance. He even considers alternatives: moving Jude deeper and pushing his favorite a few yards (meters) up the field, depending on what each match requires.
Arda Güler: Alonso's chosen one
The young Turkish talent, Arda Güler, is Xabi Alonso's bet. Despite transfer rumors in previous seasons, Real Madrid never considered selling him. They see him as a golden future for midfield, able to shine in both attacking and defensive positions.
With Xabi Alonso's arrival, Arda stops "warming the bench," as Carlo Ancelotti used to say. His recent performances show that he's already prepared to take on an important role.
The player himself has felt the coach's trust, who even tried to bring him to Leverkusen. That confidence has given Arda motivation and a clear goal: to become a key piece for Real Madrid.
A promising future
Xabi Alonso's message is clear: talent and commitment are what matter. With his eyes on the future, Arda Güler will be a central part of the Spanish coach's project. Patience, training, and vision of the game will mark his path toward becoming one of the best midfielders in the world.
While some expected the spotlight to fall on more high-profile names, Xabi Alonso has shown that he trusts whoever he sees true potential in. That player, for now, is Arda.