Xabi Alonso has instructed nine players to undergo a unique ‘world test’ during his inaugural training session as the manager of Real Madrid, according to reports.
Alonso was named the manager of Real Madrid on May 25, succeeding the departing Carlo Ancelotti.
The Spaniard played at the Bernabeu for five years, securing the Champions League title under Ancelotti before transferring to Bayern Munich in 2015.
Following an undefeated Bundesliga season and securing three trophies in the 2023/24 campaign with Bayer Leverkusen, Alonso has returned to Spain, aiming to contend for both La Liga and the Champions League.
According to Spanish outlet Marca, the Spaniard has not had the most favorable start on the first day, with only four players fully available for training due to international obligations and injury concerns.
Currently, ten Real players are facing injury issues, each at different stages of their recovery.
This situation has left Fran Garcia, Lucas Vazquez, Dani Ceballos, and Raul Asencio as the only fully fit players available for Alonso to work with at this time.
Consequently, he has opted to summon nine youth team players to train alongside the first team to enhance squad depth.
Marca further reports that he subjected them to a ‘world test’ on the first day to facilitate their adjustment to the new working methods.
It is suggested that this approach will primarily focus on communication with the new Castilla coach, Alvaro Arbeloa, who has provided Alonso with reports detailing which youth team players could be advantageous for the first team.
