Xabi Alonso finalises Real Madrid’s free-kick takers for 2025/26 season | OneFootball

According to a recent update from Real Madrid Confidencial, new head coach Xabi Alonso has already taken key decisions that reflect his strong and clear approach.

One of those is setting a defined hierarchy for free-kick takers following the arrival of three new signings, namely, Dean Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Franco Mastantuono.

With the new campaign on the horizon, Alonso has wasted no time in putting his mark on the squad. He has handed free-kick duties to two of Real Madrid’s newest signings, showing trust in their technical ability and composure.

As such, the outlet mentions that Alexander-Arnold, who joined from Liverpool, will be responsible for right-footed free-kicks. On the other side, 17-year-old Argentine prodigy, Mastantuono, will take free-kicks from the left-footed side.

Confidence shown in newcomers

This move clearly underlines the confidence Alonso has in both players, despite their recent arrival at the club. By assigning them such a specialised role, he is not only giving them responsibility but also helping them settle into life at Madrid more smoothly.

Trent Alexander-Arnold is a set-piece specialist. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

It is a gesture that shows the manager’s belief in talent over status, a message that could define this new era at the Bernabéu.

Since being announced as Real Madrid’s new manager, Alonso has made it clear that many things will change under his leadership.

While he has not had much time to train with the players yet, his decisions are already shaping the team’s dynamics.

His free-kick choices highlight a merit-based system, where the best performers in specific roles get the nod, regardless of age or seniority.

Alexander-Arnold’s proven set-piece skills from his years at Liverpool and Mastantuono’s standout ability with River Plate make them natural choices.

But more importantly, it will end Real Madrid’s long-standing pursuit of finding a set-piece specialist after Toni Kroos’ retirement and Luka Modric’s exit after the Club World Cup..