Just after bidding farewell to Bayer Leverkusen, Xabi Alonso is already stepping into his new role as Real Madrid’s head strategist. With cool precision, the former Real Madrid midfielder has outlined an ambitious and bold plan for the team: a 3-4-3 formation, specific transfer targets, and most notably—a firm decision not to pursue Erling Haaland. This stance has sparked heated reactions across social media.
Three Key Signings and a Clear Vision
According to multiple reliable Spanish and German sources, Alonso has already pinpointed three key positions to strengthen: a left wing-back, a central defender, and a defensive midfielder. One standout name is Trent Alexander-Arnold. The Liverpool star is reportedly a top priority for a swift summer transfer, with hopes he can make Spain’s World Cup squad.
Alonso sees Alexander-Arnold as the perfect right wing-back in his preferred 3-4-3 system—freeing him from the rigid defensive responsibilities of a traditional 4-3-3 setup and letting him thrive in a more attacking role.
At center-back, Dean Huijsen, the talented Dutch youngster currently on loan from Juventus to Bournemouth, is another player on Real’s radar. Known for his composure and modern playing style, he fits well into Alonso’s vision of a dynamic, ball-playing back three.
The third role Alonso wants to fill is that of a high-energy defensive midfielder, capable of functioning in a double-pivot role to stabilize the team and support the back line. While names are being floated, Alonso is keeping some options close to his chest.
A Tactical Revolution
Alonso is not aiming to follow in Carlo Ancelotti’s footsteps. He envisions a Real Madrid that is mobile, vertical, and far less predictable. Gone are the days of slow, possession-heavy football—instead, Alonso wants a high-intensity team that presses hard, uses its wing-backs aggressively, and dominates the midfield with a compact and energetic setup.
This modern, proactive approach is what caught the attention of Real’s leadership, especially after his historic Bundesliga title win. Attractive, structured, and effective—Alonso’s vision positions him as a modern architect for the club’s future.
Haaland Snub: A Shocking Statement
But the real bombshell came when Alonso addressed speculation about Erling Haaland. In a comment reportedly made to journalists close to the team, he stated:
“Haaland? He’s not our priority. We want to build a team, not look for a savior.”
A short, sharp statement—but one with huge implications. Haaland had long been seen as the natural heir to Karim Benzema, and many fans had pinned their hopes on him leading the attack.
While some supporters back Alonso’s team-first philosophy, others see the decision as a risky dismissal of world-class talent.