The winds of change have officially arrived in Madrid. As Real Madrid kick off their pre-season preparations, all eyes are on newly appointed head coach Xabi Alonso, whose mission is not only to restore pride to the white jersey but to instill a new level of discipline—especially from his star players, Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Jr. After a forgettable season, the upcoming Club World Cup offers a chance for redemption.
For Alonso, however, this tournament is more than just silverware—it’s the first step in reshaping the club’s identity under his command. Reports suggest he is ready to abandon his favored 3-4-2-1 formation in favor of Real Madrid’s traditional 4-3-3, adapting to squad limitations and defensive injuries. Beyond tactics, Alonso’s biggest impact may be his demand for defensive effort from his attackers.
Mbappé and Vinicius Jr, often criticized for their lack of tracking back, will no longer be exempt from defensive duties. Last season, both were among the lowest in kilometers covered among Europe’s elite attackers—a trend Alonso is determined to end. “Every player must defend,” Alonso reportedly told the squad in his first team talk. “Wearing this shirt means giving your all—not just when you have the ball, but especially when you don’t.” President Florentino Pérez is said to fully support this disciplined approach, recognizing its importance for long-term success.
The Club World Cup also presents a financial incentive, with €115 million in prize money that could boost Madrid’s transfer plans. The club has already secured signings like Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold, with more reinforcements expected before the tournament begins. Training sessions have intensified under Alonso, with a renewed focus on pressing, recovery, and tactical discipline. Sources describe his methods as “meticulous and non-negotiable,” signaling a stark contrast to previous regimes. Mbappé, fresh off his long-awaited move, is said to be embracing the challenge, while Vinicius Jr’s camp remains cautiously optimistic about the increased workload.
Competition within the squad is heating up, with Joselu, Rodrygo, and Brahim Díaz all pushing for minutes. Alonso’s merit-based selection policy means no player, regardless of status, is guaranteed a starting spot—a shift that has already altered the locker room dynamic. Club legend Iker Casillas has praised Alonso’s approach, calling it a necessary return to discipline. The Club World Cup will be an early test—victory could solidify Alonso’s authority, while failure might raise doubts. One thing is clear: in this new era, no player is above the system. Brilliance alone won’t suffice—balance is now the benchmark.