Xabi Alonso Begins Real Madrid Era with Bold 3-4-3 Plan, Rules Out Haaland Signing
Just after bidding farewell to Bayer Leverkusen, Xabi Alonso has stepped into his role at Real Madrid with bold intent. Known for his tactical acumen, Alonso has outlined an ambitious shift to a 3-4-3 formation, a clear recruitment plan, and a surprising move: refusing to pursue Erling Haaland. This decision has stirred up debate among fans and pundits.
Three Key Targets Identified
Sources from Spain and Germany suggest Alonso has already pinpointed three priority signings: a left wing-back, a central defender, and a defensive midfielder. Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold tops the list. Alonso views him as a perfect fit for the right wing-back role in his attacking system, free from the defensive demands of a traditional 4-3-3 setup.
Also on the radar is Dean Huijsen, a promising Dutch defender currently on loan from Juventus to Bournemouth. His modern style and mobility align well with Alonso’s vision for a fluid back three.
For midfield, Alonso is seeking a physically robust player capable of operating in a double pivot to help stabilize the defense. While specific names are yet to be confirmed, options are reportedly being kept under wraps.
A Tactical Shift with Purpose
Alonso is clearly moving away from Carlo Ancelotti’s philosophy. He envisions a dynamic, vertically-oriented Real Madrid that dominates through intensity and quick transitions rather than patient possession. His strategy emphasizes aggressive pressing, with two wing-backs and three ball-winning central players fueling high-tempo play.
Haaland Not in the Picture
What’s causing the biggest buzz, however, is Alonso’s stance on Erling Haaland. When asked, he reportedly stated, “Haaland? He’s not a priority. We’re building a team, not chasing a savior.”
This comment has shocked many fans who saw Haaland as the natural successor to Karim Benzema. While some understand it as a move toward team balance, others see it as a risky snub of a world-class talent.
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