Real Madrid has been bustling in the summer transfer window this year. Following a disappointing 2024/25 season where they faced setbacks on various fronts, the club made the decision to part ways with Carlo Ancelotti, bringing in former player Xabi Alonso as his replacement.
In preparation for the upcoming Club World Cup, the Spanish giants have been proactive in enhancing their squad.
They’ve already secured the signings of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and Franco Mastantuono, with plans to soon bring in Benfica’s left-back, Álvaro Carreras.
These new additions provide Alonso with a wealth of options as he gears up for the new season.
Spanish journalist Manu Carreno shared insights into the coach’s intentions on Cadena SER’s radio program, El Larguero, stating that Alonso has a specific starting XI in mind not only for the FIFA Club World Cup in the U.S. but also for the beginning of La Liga.
Thibaut Courtois continues to be regarded as one of the top goalkeepers globally, so it’s understandable that Alonso has confidence in him to guard the net.
However, the defensive lineup ahead of him has seen significant changes.
New faces Trent and Huijsen have carved out spots in Alonso’s preferred starting eleven, along with Carreras, who hasn’t officially signed yet but is anticipated to finalize his transfer shortly.
Huijsen is set to partner at the back with either Eder Militao or Antonio Rudiger.
Alonso also has Dani Carvajal as an option, who will vie for the right-back position with Trent once he regains full fitness following his lengthy injury.
Additionally, David Alaba, Ferland Mendy, and Fran García are all available to support the Spanish manager.
Aurelien Tchouameni has quickly established himself as one of the top midfielders in the world since his move to Real Madrid in 2022, and Alonso is keen on pairing him in midfield with Federico Valverde.
Valverde had a challenging season last year, filling in as a right-back for several matches due to Dani Carvajal’s severe injury.
Jude Bellingham also makes the cut in Alonso’s ideal starting lineup, teamed up with new recruit Mastantuono.
At just 17, the Argentine talent has already amassed over 60 appearances for River Plate and has earned caps with his national team.
Though still young, he arrives at the club with a €45 million price tag and is anticipated to be a key starter from day one.
Players like Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Guler, and Dani Ceballos haven’t made Alonso’s first-choice XI but will likely play significant roles throughout the season.
Kylian Mbappe had an outstanding first season with Real Madrid, notching up 43 goals and providing five assists across 56 appearances.
He straight away earned a spot in Alonso’s top XI, joining forces with Vinicius Jr.
Though Vinicius struggled to maintain the exceptional form he had in the 2023/24 season, he remains among the elite attackers in the game today.
In contrast, Rodrygo did not make the cut for Alonso’s best XI.
The 24-year-old, who has been with the club since 2019, has been rumored to be eyeing a lucrative move away this summer.
Currently, Alonso can also count on Brahim Diaz and Endrick as options in the forward line.
