Just last summer, Real Madrid’s defense was anchored by seasoned veterans like Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao, and Ferland Mendy — a backline known for its strength, experience, and consistency. These four formed a defensive unit that was among the most respected in European football.
Today, however, as the FIFA Club World Cup approaches, that lineup has seen a dramatic transformation. Under new manager Xabi Alonso, Los Blancos are set to feature a radically different quartet at the back: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kodai Huijsen, Marco Asensio, and Pablo Carreras. It’s a major departure from tradition and a move few would have predicted just months ago.
The shift marks more than a change in personnel — it signals a new era of football at the Santiago Bernabéu. Xabi Alonso has introduced a philosophy that prioritizes speed, versatility, and tactical dynamism. This has led to unconventional choices, such as deploying typically attacking players like Asensio and Carreras in defensive roles, embracing a modern approach where defenders are expected to contribute in multiple phases of play.
Alexander-Arnold, known for his offensive capabilities, brings creativity from deep positions, while Huijsen adds youthful promise and composure. Their inclusion, alongside the surprising defensive assignments for Asensio and Carreras, shows Alonso’s boldness and trust in a new generation of players.
This overhaul reflects a broader strategic pivot by Real Madrid: moving away from an aging core and investing in young, adaptable talent. Alonso’s decisions are risky — especially with a high-stakes tournament on the horizon — but they also represent the club’s ongoing commitment to evolution and innovation.
As Real Madrid prepares for the Club World Cup, fans and critics alike are watching closely. Can this inexperienced but energetic backline handle the pressure of elite competition? Will Alonso’s radical approach bring success?
Regardless of the outcome, one thing is clear: the “Great Wall of Xabi” has emerged as a symbol of change — a testament to bold leadership, fresh talent, and Real Madrid’s relentless pursuit of progress
