Xabi Alonso has picked his preferred starting XI as Real Madrid manager, it has been reported – and one huge name has been left out.
Xabi Alonso’s First Big Call at Real Madrid: Star Player Axed from Starting XI
In just his first official week as Real Madrid manager, Xabi Alonso has already made headlines—by reportedly selecting his preferred starting XI for next season and dropping a major name in the process.
After overseeing his first training session on Monday, Alonso began shaping his vision for the club ahead of a high-stakes summer, including preparation for the Club World Cup. With only four senior players available, Alonso called up nine youth players for a rigorous “world test” session, per Marca.
The newly-appointed boss is wasting no time in establishing his philosophy and pecking order. According to reports, one huge Real Madrid star has been left out of Alonso’s provisional first-team plans, sending a strong message about the new era at the Bernabéu.
More details on the axed star and Alonso’s starting XI choices are expected to emerge in the coming days as pre-season intensifies.
Rodrygo Dropped: Xabi Alonso’s Bold First XI for Real Madrid Unveiled
New Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso is wasting no time in making bold moves. According to El Larguero, Alonso has already outlined his preferred starting XI for the 2025/26 season—and Rodrygo is the most high-profile omission.
Despite being a regular under Carlo Ancelotti and netting 13 goals last season, the 24-year-old Brazilian winger has been left out of Alonso’s envisioned lineup. This decision comes amid increasing transfer speculation, with Arsenal reportedly interested in a summer swoop.
In Alonso’s projected XI:
- New signings Trent Alexander-Arnold (from Liverpool) and Dean Huijsen (from Juventus via Bournemouth) are both included.
- Álvaro Carreras, the Benfica left-back and Real Madrid academy product, is also expected to return and start.
- Franco Mastantuono, just 17 and not yet officially signed, is a shock inclusion. The River Plate sensation, soon to complete a €45 million transfer, is penciled in for a central role—alongside Jude Bellingham, Tchouaméni, and Valverde in a dynamic midfield.
Up front, Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Jr. will lead the attack in a two-striker formation, signaling a potential shift away from a traditional three-man forward line.
In defense, Courtois remains the first-choice goalkeeper, with Militao or Rüdiger expected to partner Huijsen.
Alonso’s immediate impact is clear: youth, tactical evolution, and no fear of shaking up the old guard.
