Xabi Alonso Hints At Midfield Reinforcements For Real Madrid

Newly appointed Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has suggested the club will look to strengthen their midfield options ahead of his first season in charge at the Santiago Bernabeu.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Speaking at his first press conference as Real Madrid boss, Xabi Alonso addressed the club’s transfer plans, specifically mentioning his desire to bolster the midfield. “We always have to improve the team. I want to talk with the club about this,” Alonso stated when asked about potential midfield signings. The 43-year-old Spaniard also outlined his football philosophy, emphasizing: “In my view, our football must be proactive. We have to control the game.” These comments come just one day after Alonso signed a three-year contract that runs until June 30, 2028.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Alonso’s appointment marks the beginning of a new era at Real Madrid following a disappointing 2024-2025 season. Los Blancos finished second in La Liga with 84 points, managing 26 wins but suffering 6 defeats across their 38 league matches. The club ended the season trophyless for the first time in four years, which led to Carlo Ancelotti’s departure. Alonso arrives with a growing reputation as one of football’s most promising tacticians, having achieved remarkable success with Bayer Leverkusen, where he won the domestic double last season without losing a single game.

TRANSFER ACTIVITY ALREADY UNDERWAY

Real Madrid have been active in the transfer market even before Alonso’s arrival. They’ve already secured former Costa del Sol resident Dean Huijsen from AFC Bournemouth in a €60 million deal. Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold is also expected to join once his contract with the Premier League champions expires this summer. With Alonso’s comments about midfield reinforcements, speculation will now turn to potential targets who could help implement his vision of “proactive” football and game control.

WHAT NEXT FOR REAL MADRID?

Alonso will officially begin his tenure on June 1, 2025, just weeks before Real Madrid’s first match in the revamped FIFA Club World Cup. Their opening game is scheduled against Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal in Miami on June 18. This tournament will provide the first glimpse of Alonso’s tactical approach with his new squad. With the transfer window opening soon, fans will be eagerly watching for midfield signings that align with the manager’s vision of controlling games and playing proactive football.