Xabi Alonso Not Afraid to Make Big Calls
Vinicius Jr. dropped, Rodrygo in. Considering the context—second game of the season, transfer window still open, no real need for rest—this was a big call from Xabi Alonso.
The lineup as a whole felt Mourinho-esque: a message to keep everyone sharp. Competition for spots is at an all-time high.
And maybe the bigger message wasn’t who rotated, but who didn’t. Alvaro Carreras, Dean Huijsen, Aurelien Tchouameni, Arda Guler, Fede Valverde, and Mbappe. That’s the core.
Tchouameni Sets the Standard
Confidence is a powerful thing. Tchouameni
has it now, and he looks transformed. He’s not just playing well—he’s consistent. Game after game, he stands out.
It wasn’t long ago fans struggled to name a single match where he put the team on his shoulders. Now he does it weekly.
Against Oviedo, he took souls. Crunching tackles, often multiple in the same sequence. His force and aggressiveness set the tone. He’s become an on-field leader. Less than eight months removed from struggles and whistles, it’s a testament to his mentality.
Alvaro Carreras – Major Upgrade
It’s taken less than one preseason game and two league matches to see the difference. Carreras is an upgrade at left back.
The Filipe Luís comparison is fair. Composed on the ball, steady without it, comfortable in both phases. He adds an element Madrid have lacked for years.
