Xabi Alonso's debut as Real Madrid's coach has left many interesting takeaways for the immediate future. The new coach has made it clear that he wants a recognizable style, with ball control and a lot of pressing after losing possession. However, what was most surprising was an obvious lack in midfield from the very start of the match.
Real Madrid faced Al Hilal in its debut at the Club World Cup with a rather offensive starting eleven. Even so, in the first half there was an alarming lack of ideas and ball movement in the center of the field. Tchouaméni played as the holding midfielder, but he couldn't connect the lines or offer solutions against the opponent's pressing.
After halftime, Xabi Alonso replied by making tactical changes and opting for more creative profiles. Arda Güler came onto the field and changed the pace of the match. Despite his impact, he wasn't the one who took all the spotlight in the match played at the Miami stadium.
The role of the academy in the new Madrid
The absolute protagonist was an unexpected name, someone who had gone almost unnoticed under Ancelotti. We're talking about Gonzalo García, the forward who excelled brightly when a reference in attack was most needed. With Mbappé injured, Xabi Alonso chose him as the starting "9," and the young player didn't waste his opportunity.
Gonzalo García scored a decisive goal that opened the scoring and created several chances with his movement and intelligence. He showed personality, character, and a goal-scoring instinct that he had already proven during his time with Castilla. Last season, he scored 25 goals under Raúl González's orders, who always defended his quality.
Raúl trusted Gonzalo García from the start
The academy has always been a pillar of the white project, and Raúl knew how to spot talent before many others. Ancelotti, on the other hand, barely gave him minutes despite his outstanding performance in Primera RFEF. Now, with Xabi Alonso in charge, everything suggests that Gonzalo García could have a more important role.
The new coach is willing to reward merit and hard work, regardless of names or status. The emergence of the forward coincides with a period of transition in Real Madrid's attack. Mbappé, Vinícius, and Rodrygo are the starters, but opportunities will keep coming for those who respond.
Xabi Alonso starts with bold decisions
It's not easy to make important decisions in your first match as Real Madrid's coach. However, Xabi Alonso did it and, for now, it has worked out well for him. Trusting Gonzalo García has been a game-changer that could continue throughout the tournament.
The season is long and injuries are commonplace. If he keeps this level, the young forward will keep getting minutes with the first team. Time will tell if this one-off appearance turns into a true success story at Chamartín.