Since the start of the season, Xabi Alonso has yet to field the same starting eleven twice. With ten official matches played, the coach has experimented with ten different lineups, a reflection of his ongoing search for stability amid a wave of defensive injuries. Despite this constant rotation, two players have emerged as consistent figures: Thibaut Courtois and Kylian Mbappé. Both have started all eight La Liga matches and the two Champions League fixtures, highlighting their importance in Alonso’s plans.
Alonso’s tactical flexibility has led to an astonishing 35 different starting combinations so far this season, including the frequent changes in personnel from match to match. This ongoing experimentation suggests that his ideal starting eleven remains a work in progress. The backline, in particular, has faced significant instability due to repeated injuries and tactical adjustments. Currently, Alonso has deployed seven different defensive setups, with the most frequently used quartet—Trent Alexander-Arnold, Éder Militão, Dean Huijsen, and Álvaro Carreras—now missing key players. Huijsen is sidelined, while Alexander-Arnold suffered an injury just five minutes into the match against Marseille.
Midfield Stability Amidst Chaos
In midfield, some semblance of stability has emerged despite the absence of Jude Bellingham at the start of the campaign. Alonso has relied on a robust trio comprising Federico Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Arda Güler. Together, they have started five matches and formed a crucial part of Madrid’s gameplay. This midfield solidity contrasts sharply with the defensive chaos that has plagued the team.
Dynamic Forward Line
Up front, Mbappé remains the focal point of attack, often flanked by a rotating cast of players including Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo Goes, Brahim Díaz, and young talent Mastantuono depending on the match context. This fluidity in attacking options reflects Alonso’s commitment to adapting his strategy based on opponent strengths and weaknesses.
As Alonso continues to navigate these challenges, he remains optimistic about integrating more players into his rotation. “There will be a moment for everyone to enter the rotation,” he stated before facing Levante. “I don’t know when that will be yet; we need to manage the workload.” With each passing matchday, Real Madrid fans are left wondering when their coach will finally find the right formula to solidify his squad’s performance.
The road ahead is critical for Real Madrid as they seek to establish consistency in both domestic and European competitions. Can Alonso find that elusive balance before it’s too late?
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