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Xabi Alonso is known for rotating his teams and with the depth currently available to him at Real Madrid, we will likely see some different faces in the next starting XI. Rodrygo, Franco and maybe Rudiger should be in with a shout
to start the next game.
Xabi’s trust in Franco Mastantuono is arguably the most surprising thing I’ve seen from the new manager. Itgoves the impression that we’re low on quality without Franco. It was even more surprising than seeing Brahim continuously picked ahead of Rodrygo.
Midfield Shortages and Implications
The absence of Camavinga and Jude Bellingham as midfield options creates problems for Xabi Alonso. The ball control and dribbling ability of the two midfielders gives us something we do not get with Fede Valverde who’s biggest strength will be his ability to cover as well as get in the box. Jude ad Edu bring a different dynamic on the creative front in terms of breaking lines of pressure with their dribbling to open up spaces and avenues for attack. For now Xabi has to rely on the positional advantages of Fede and Tchouaméni as well as the passing from Guler and Huijsen for creativity. It did not look pretty against Osasuna but should get better with time.
The Fullback Solutions
Carreras and Trent have added much needed quality to the fullback positions. The depth and variation gives Xabi the ability to play with more dynamism in his approach. The fullbacks have different strengths and weaknesses. Carreras and Carvajal are more defensively assured while Trent and Fran offer their different offensive capabilities. Carreras and Carvajal are arguably the more balanced pair.
