Three priority tasks Xabi Alonso must tackle at Real Madrid | OneFootball

Real Madrid have made a bold choice by putting their trust in Xabi Alonso as the man to lead the club from the 2025/26 season, and the Spaniard has wasted no time in stepping into action.

His involvement starts with the FIFA Club World Cup, and the message is clear: every move now, from transfers to tactical choices, is made with Alonso’s plans in mind.

The former midfielder is not just thinking about the long term, he wants to get to work immediately. His arrival marks a clear shift from the relaxed, player-led environment of Carlo Ancelotti to a more focused, structured approach.

Alonso is known for his attention to detail, and his goal is to bring discipline, clarity, and quiet efficiency back into the Real Madrid dressing room.

Changing the system

Alonso will need to manage his players very cautiously. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Although Alonso kept it quiet during his presentation, his appointment had been in the works for some time. His low-key response to the announcement was a sign of what is to come.

The former Bayer Leverkusen coach wants to create a serious, focused environment, something quite different from the easy-going attitude that defined Ancelotti’s reign.

This approach is not just for show. It is about building a strong internal structure where players are fully focused on their tasks. This would be extremely crucial for a club of Real Madrid’s stature, given the players they have in the roster.

The club, once cautious in the market, is now moving swiftly, paying Dean Huijsen’s clause without hesitation and entering direct talks for talents like Franco Mastantuono.

Behind the scenes at Valdebebas, Alonso is busy drawing up plans, reviewing players, and deciding who fits into his vision. He understands the pressure, but he’s ready for it.

A new formation?

Alonso might have to give up on his three-man defense. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)

Alonso is not expected to make sudden, sweeping changes, but he will make his style known from the start. The big question now is which formation he will rely on next season.

He may begin with a 4-3-3, but there are signs he is open to more fluid setups like a 3-4-3 with wing-backs. This would allow Real Madrid to keep their attacking threat while adding more control in defence.

Alonso must be learning from the past, as Carlo Ancelotti struggled last season when trying to fit three forwards into a rigid shape, eventually switching to a 4-4-2 to stabilise the team.

The Spaniard wants to avoid repeating those issues. His system will aim to balance defence and attack while offering flexibility when needed.

Conversation with the players

Alonso must talk to his key players before starting the season. (Photo by JAIME REINA/AFP via Getty Images)

Alonso’s early days are not just about tactics. He is also focusing on key conversations with players. One of the most important is with Rodrygo, who ended last season in poor form.

While there were hopes of receiving offers close to €100 million for the Brazilian, no such bids have arrived. For now, Rodrygo remains, and Alonso wants to help him rediscover his best level.

What is discussed in the meeting between the two will ultimately decide if the Brazilian will continue at Real Madrid.

Furthermore, it is not just about the big names. Alonso is giving young players a real chance. Academy talents like Jesus Fortea, Diego Aguado, and Jacobo Ramon are all expected to be part of the squad for the Club World Cup.

Alonso sees value in promoting youth and building a team that blends experience with hunger.

Ultimately, Alonso’s goal is to create a smooth, united transition that avoids unnecessary noise. With multiple challenges ahead, he is focused on building a team that not only wins but also plays with purpose and unity.