Real Madrid enters the new La Liga season brimming with fresh hope under newly-appointed coach Xabi Alonso, looking to turn the page on a disappointing end to the Carlo Ancelotti era. Featuring several new signings, the Spanish giants aim to combine attacking flair with defensive discipline in pursuit of domestic and European glory.
Alonso, a former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder, saw the work ahead firsthand during the Club World Cup in the United States, where Paris Saint-Germain defeated Madrid 4-0 in the semi-final. “Things are going to be different, we are starting from scratch,” he said, noting that lessons from the tournament will influence his approach this season.
Madrid fans also got their first glimpse of Alonso’s tactical plans, including the debut of England defender Trent Alexander-Arnold. The Basque coach demonstrated flexibility by alternating between a four-man and three-man defence, contrasting with Ancelotti’s often rigid backline.
Alonso emphasized that all players, including forwards like Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe, must contribute defensively. “We need and want everyone to defend – the 11 players on the pitch have to be involved defensively,” he said.
Alonso faces the challenge of balancing Madrid’s attacking stars without compromising defensive stability. Last season, Mbappe scored 43 goals, but the team failed to win any major trophies, with Barcelona reclaiming La Liga as part of a domestic treble.
“We have to be self-critical, but it will also serve us as a guide for where we need to improve,” Alonso said following the Club World Cup.
Real Madrid begins the season without Luka Modric, a key figure in midfield for over a decade. The club hopes that Turkish playmaker Arda Guler can fill the creative void, while Jude Bellingham’s absence until mid-October due to shoulder surgery offers young talents a chance to shine.
Alexander-Arnold, who joined from Liverpool, adds further attacking quality from right-back, and new signings Dean Huijsen, Alvaro Carreras, and Franco Mastantuono bolster depth in defence and midfield.
Dani Carvajal’s return from a long-term knee injury is another boost for the squad. In total, Los Blancos have spent over 170 million euros ($200 million) this summer in pursuit of a squad capable of playing “ambitious” football with emotion and energy.
As Alonso looks to implement his vision, Madrid fans are eager to see a team that can merge flair with tactical discipline, restoring the club’s status as a footballing powerhouse both domestically and in Europe.
Written By Rodney Mbua
