Xabi Alonso has landed on Real Madrid's bench with a clear mission: to transform the team, not only in terms of results, but also in identity. He's doing it from within, focusing on names that might not make the headlines, but could prove decisive.
The Basque coach, far from being swayed by the spotlight on Vinícius or the constant rumors about Kylian Mbappé, has chosen to highlight another as his personal bet: Eduardo Camavinga.
Camavinga, the chosen one
Camavinga hasn't had an easy year; injuries, a lack of consistency, and irregular performances have kept him from his best version. However, Xabi Alonso sees something different in him. He sees him as a piece capable of revolutionizing the team's play.
With Luka Modric's departure drawing ever closer, Real Madrid needs a new engine in the midfield. Someone who not only wins the ball back, but also breaks lines, energizes possession, and gives the team rhythm. In training, Alonso has already shown his trust in the young Frenchman; he considers him key.
A shared challenge
It won't be easy; Camavinga needs consistency, minutes, and above all, health. Injuries have been his biggest enemy. Even so, the white coaching staff are determined to get him back for the cause. In fact, his participation in the upcoming Club World Cup is no longer a pipe dream. In April, it seemed impossible; today, it's almost a reality.
Xabi Alonso wants the Frenchman to be more than a game-changer; he wants him as a starter. He imagines him as a hinge between defense and attack, as Modric's natural replacement, but with his own style.
Bellingham, another open front
Although many thought Jude Bellingham would be the axis of the new Madrid, Alonso has surprised with his approach. Yes, he values the Englishman. In fact, he has repeated that he sees him as a midfielder, not as an attacking midfielder, but with him, the message has been clear: it will depend on his daily work.
Unlike Camavinga, Bellingham has excelled this past season. But the new coach wants more. He wants him to evolve, to learn to make better decisions with and without the ball, to become more complete.
An era with new protagonists
Xabi Alonso doesn't want a Madrid of names; he wants a Madrid of play. Of defined roles, of committed players.
That's why his first big bet hasn't been Vinícius or Mbappé. It's been Camavinga. A footballer who, if injuries respect him, can be the engine of the team for the coming years.
The future no longer depends on the market. It depends on performance. Xabi Alonso is clear about it: his key player is already at home.