Real Madrid Begins a Ruthless New Era Under Xabi Alonso
As Luka Modrić prepares to bid farewell to Real Madrid, the club is undergoing a dramatic transformation—one driven not by sentiment, but by strategy. The Croatian legend, who has won six Champions League titles and a Ballon d’Or, will wear the iconic white jersey one last time against Real Sociedad. At 39, his departure was mutually agreed upon, signaling the end of an era.
But Modrić is not the only one leaving. In what insiders describe as a sweeping overhaul requested by incoming coach Xabi Alonso, three more key figures are set to exit. Real Madrid has officially confirmed their departures, part of Alonso’s mission to reshape the team in his own image: leaner, sharper, and built for the future.
The Departures: Who’s Leaving
- Lucas Vázquez, a longtime servant of the club, will remain until the Club World Cup in December, with his exit managed respectfully to maintain stability during the transition.
- Jesús Vallejo, once viewed as a future defensive mainstay, has fallen out of favor and will not participate in the club’s U.S. preseason tour. His exit is immediate.
- Ferland Mendy, perhaps the most surprising name, has been cut despite a recent contract extension. Alonso reportedly cited Mendy’s recurring injuries and tactical mismatch with the new system. Though his departure is complicated by financial factors, talks are underway to arrange a transfer, likely to the Premier League.
In a closed-door meeting, Alonso reportedly outlined his non-negotiables for the new squad, emphasizing the need for consistency, physical readiness, and alignment with his tactical vision. “We’re building a new cycle,” he told the board, “and can’t afford weak spots in critical positions.”
A Club in Transition
As Carlo Ancelotti departs for the Brazil national team, Alonso steps into one of football’s most high-pressure roles. But rather than ease into the job, he’s making bold decisions from the outset. Every position is under scrutiny. No reputation guarantees safety.
The changes mark a seismic shift in how Madrid manages its evolution. The club’s leadership supports Alonso’s bold approach, and a press conference is scheduled for Sunday to unveil the full list of summer exits—timed carefully to allow fans to honor Modrić before confronting the reality of the club’s reinvention.
For Madridistas, Saturday’s match will be nostalgic, as Modrić receives a final tribute. But behind the emotional send-off lies a cold, calculated rebuild. Under Alonso, Real Madrid is not just changing—it’s being rebuilt from the ground up.
