Three things Real Madrid fans can look forward to seeing under Xabi Alonso | OneFootball

Xabi Alonso has taken over as Real Madrid’s new manager, replacing Carlo Ancelotti. For many fans, this is more than just a coaching change as it feels like a homecoming, something that even the Spaniard admitted.

Alonso is not a familiar face. As a player, he won major titles with Real Madrid and Spain. As a manager, he has earned respect by leading Bayer Leverkusen to break Bayern Munich’s long-time dominance in the Bundesliga.

His coaching career is only just beginning, but he already has a clear philosophy, strong leadership, and a winning mentality.

Last season was forgettable for Real Madrid. With Ancelotti at helm, there were moments when the team lacked direction on the pitch.

However, fans are now hopeful that Alonso can bring back the club’s identity and energy and on that note, let’s look at what to expect from Real Madrid under his leadership.

Tactical changes that matter

Xabi Alonso will change the dynamics of Real Madrid. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)

Under Ancelotti, Real Madrid often switched between formations like 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, and 4-4-2. While flexible, this made it hard for players to build rhythm or chemistry.

Key players such as Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo could not perform upto their usual standards, even though Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. had some bright moments.

Alonso is expected to bring more structure. He prefers a three-at-the-back system that encourages full-backs to play higher up the pitch.

This could be a game-changer, as players like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alvaro Carreras are known for their attacking style, and Alonso’s system will allow them to do what they do best – push forward and create chances.

At the same time, defence won’t be ignored. With strong defenders like Dean Huijsen, Antonio Rudiger, and young Raul Asencio in the backline, Alonso has the right mix of youth and experience to keep things solid at the back.

This system won’t just improve shape, it will also bring a sense of purpose. Every player will know their role, and fans can expect a more organised and exciting team.

Interestingly enough, this tactical shift could also spell the end of some players in the current roster, with the likes of Ferland Mendy and Rodrygo being touted as posstible victims.

Discipline and fair play for all

How will Alonso handle the big egos at Real Madrid? (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

One of the major issues last season was a lack of accountability. Some players seemed too comfortable with their starting spots, and that affected the team’s energy and hunger. Alonso is unlikely to let that continue.

Aleix Garcia, who played under Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen, recently shared some insight. “He doesn’t like to make fun of things. He likes training to be the time to work,” he said.

A standout example of Alonso’s no-nonsense approach came when he benched Florian Wirtz, one of his best players, just for arriving late to training. That kind of decision sends a clear message that no one is bigger than the team.

Furthermore, he also expects his attacking players to defend. “He wants all the players to run and be involved in defense. I know he wants to try to involve the attacking players, especially to make that effort,” explained the Leverkusen midfielder.

This will be an interesting challenge at Real Madrid, as stars like Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. are not known for tracking back. If Alonso can get them to press and defend more, it could completely change the team’s dynamics.

Managing big egos at a club like Real Madrid is never easy, but Alonso’s clear expectations and fair treatment of all players might be exactly what the team needs.

He has already shown he is not afraid to make bold choices for the good of the group.

A pathway for the youth

Arda Guler is among other young players who is expected to play a bigger role under Alonso. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Another area where Alonso could make a big difference is in how young players are treated. Real Madrid’s academy is full of talent, but over the years, very few have made it to the first team.

Players like Raul Asencio only got chances due to injuries or lack of other options. Alonso, however, is known for spotting and developing young talent.

This could be a turning point for Real Madrid’s youth system. Arda Guler, who did not play much under Ancelotti, is expected to have a more important role next season.

Furthermore, the potential return of Nico Paz, who had been away, is another sign that youth could be a priority.

There are even more names being discussed. Reports suggest that Joan Martinez, Jacobo Ramon, and Jesus Fortea could join the first team under Alonso.

If this happens, it would mark a major shift in how the club sees its future, not just relying on expensive signings, but building from within.

Alonso himself came through a strong footballing background and understands the value of giving chances to young players.

His belief in hard work, along with his ability to spot potential, means fans could see a fresh generation of stars rise at the Santiago Bernabeu.