Alonso has completed 90 days and seven matches in charge of Real Madrid, during which he has designed a starting lineup with Güler, Huijsen, and Carreras as major new additions.
Xabi Alonso has completed three months as the coach of Real Madrid, 90 days and seven official matches managed plus one friendly, in which he has designed the starting lineup on which he has based his formations. The main novelties so far are Güler, to whom he has given the reins of the game, and the signings that change the defense with Huijsen and Carreras. The main question to discern is who will occupy the right-back position in important matches, Carvajal or Alexander Arnold.
Three sacrificed
The Tolosa native leaves out Rudiger, Fran García, Mendy, and Rodrygo from Ancelotti's tenure. Huijsen forms a defensive partnership with the recovered Militao, who, injuries aside, is a regular starter. Carreras has arrived to reign at left back, while Güler has earned his trust to mold him into the creative position that Ancelotti refused to even try except in specific moments.
The only question that remains to be answered is who will occupy the right flank in the important matches. Carvajal is a defensive surety, a reliable bet, and a reliable captain. Alexander Arnold is still far from what is expected of him. Diminished, timid, and overwhelmed by the environment of a demanding team that doesn't forgive half measures. The competition for the right flank looks interesting.
The Fixed Players
The other six positions are awarded based on quality, level, and track record, supported by the performance of his seven matches in charge. Courtois, Valverde, Tchouameni, Bellingham (now injured), Vinicius, and Mbappé have their places secured. The question remains whether Alonso is a coach with fixed ideas like his predecessor. The Italian didn't care if one of his regulars didn't perform, whether due to a drop in fitness or morale, as he always relied on the same players.
Mastantuono, Brahim, Camavinga (now injured), Rudiger, and Gonzalo are potential starters should any of their teammates decline or get injured, as is the case for the Moroccan with Bellingham's absence, and the Argentine, who has recently arrived at Valdebebas, is aiming for the position. Behind him are Ceballos, whose activity will depend on the performance of the other midfielders: Alaba, Fran García, Mendy (when he recovers), Asencio, and Lunin. The big question mark is what role Rodrygo will have, a regular in recent years but who has been sidelined for months due to his footballing slump