Xabi Alonso Reveals Exciting Plans for Real Madrid’s Number 10 Jersey and Captaincy Role – Arda Güler and Toni Kroos in Spotlight!
In a surprising announcement, Real Madrid’s new manager Xabi Alonso shared bold plans regarding the club’s iconic number 10 shirt and the role of captaincy, stirring excitement among fans. The announcement highlighted two key figures: young Turkish talent Arda Güler and recently retired legend Toni Kroos.
Following Carlo Ancelotti’s departure, Alonso aims to blend a fresh generation of talent with the club’s rich traditions. His recent comments suggest a strategic shift that could reshape Real Madrid’s identity in the 2025/26 season.
Since officially becoming manager in summer 2025, Alonso wasted no time outlining his vision. Known for his strong ties to the club and tactical insight, he revealed that the number 10 jersey will not be retired or left vacant after Luka Modric’s exit post-World Cup. Instead, the prestigious jersey will be handed to Arda Güler, a promising 20-year-old who has struggled with injuries and limited playing time since joining in 2023.
Alonso’s faith in Güler signals confidence in his potential to become a key player for Real Madrid. Despite a tough start under Ancelotti, Güler impressed in the 2024/25 season with crucial contributions, including a vital assist against Real Sociedad. Alonso also compared Güler’s role to that of Florian Wirtz at Bayer Leverkusen, describing him as a versatile midfielder suited to a double-pivot system. This decision is expected to boost Güler’s confidence and secure him a regular starting spot.
Another notable aspect of Alonso’s announcement was his reference to Toni Kroos in terms of leadership. Although Kroos retired in 2024, he remains an influential figure at the club. Alonso suggested Kroos might take on an advisory or ambassadorial role, helping with coaching and mentoring future leaders, including assisting in selecting the next captain. This ensures Kroos’s winning mentality and experience continue to benefit Real Madrid even off the pitch.
Alonso’s inclusion of Kroos reflects deep respect for his lasting legacy at the club. Kroos was pivotal in midfield during his career, and Alonso’s support for new talent like Angelo Styles from Stuttgart shows his intention to balance tradition with new talent. Kroos’s mentorship could be especially valuable for players like Güler.
Alonso’s broader strategy addresses Real Madrid’s midfield challenges following the departures of Kroos and Modric. With a preference for a 3-4-3 formation and a dual-pivot midfield requiring creativity and control, Alonso is relying on young talents like Güler, Styles, and Enzo Fernández to fill the void.
Overall, Alonso’s announcement represents both an honor and a challenge for Güler, placing him in the spotlight at one of the world’s biggest clubs. Meanwhile, Kroos’s ongoing involvement ensures Real Madrid’s future remains connected to its rich history. As the 2025/26 season approaches, fans eagerly await how Alonso’s vision will unfold.
Would you like me to paraphrase any other part or summarize it even more?
