No one at Real Madrid has a guaranteed spot. Not even those who arrived with star status or who were key pieces in previous cycles. Soccer doesn't wait, and the white club even less so.
With Xabi Alonso's arrival on Santiago Bernabéu bench, several hierarchies have been shaken. The new coach has a clear idea, and he doesn't intend to mortgage himself for names or track records.
There are players who were undisputed VIPs under Ancelotti... who now barely count as squad depth.
A figure under scrutiny
The most striking case is Eduardo Camavinga's. The French midfielder, who arrived as a bet for the future, had periods of great prominence during Ancelotti's tenure. But he isn't in Xabi's plans.
He sees him as a versatile profile, but not as a key piece in his midfield. The competition is fierce. With Tchouaméni, Bellingham, Valverde, Arda Güler, and now Mastantuono present, there's little room for players who haven't managed to settle in.
Xabi values Camavinga's commitment and energy, but he believes his decision-making and inconsistency put him behind.
The market listens
That's why an important decision has already been made in the Bernabéu offices. If an interesting offer for Camavinga arrives this summer, the club is willing to sell him. They won't give him away, because they believe he still has a reputation in Europe and a future.
The club knows PSG would be very interested in bringing him back. It's a matter of negotiating and reaching an agreement on the price.
He is no longer considered non-transferable. If a club puts between €50 and €60 million ($54 million and $65 million) on the table, the operation will be seriously considered.
In that case, Xabi prefers to promote a youth player like Mario Martín, who's more receptive to his methods.
Ancelotti's legacy crumbles
This situation reflects a deep change in the club's philosophy. Ancelotti was always in favor of signing from outside and prioritizing established names. Xabi Alonso has a different vision: he wants a more balanced, more collective squad with less dependence on media figures.
He believes hunger and discipline are above status. That's why players like Camavinga or Ceballos no longer have the same weight.
The first, due to a lack of development. The second, for not offering what Xabi demands in terms of pace, positioning, and high pressing.
The new Real Madrid is beginning to take shape. In that picture, not everyone fits.