A new era is about to unfold at Real Madrid as they prepare for a significant coaching transition. The prestigious Spanish club is likely to part ways with Carlo Ancelotti, who is on the brink of taking the helm of the Brazilian national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. To fill this void, Spanish manager Xabi Alonso has emerged as their top candidate for the upcoming season.

Having officially announced his departure from Bayer Leverkusen, where he clinched a historic Bundesliga title, Xabi Alonso is now set to bring his tactical acumen to Madrid. Although Real Madrid has yet to confirm his appointment, discussions around which players will thrive under his guidance have already begun.

Arda Guler

From Alonso’s tenure at Bayer Leverkusen, we learned how he elevated the performances of young talents like Florian Wirtz, who found the back of the net 34 times over two seasons. Now, with the signing of Turkish prodigy Arda Guler in 2023, the stage seems set for the young star to make his mark. Despite facing challenges in securing a regular spot in the lineup, Guler’s potential is undeniable, and with Alonso’s arrival, he could become a crucial player for Real Madrid.

Trent Alexander-Arnold

The upcoming season promises strategic changes, particularly for the fullbacks — a critical component of Alonso’s game plan. Reports suggest that Trent Alexander-Arnold is poised to leave Liverpool, which aligns perfectly with Alonso’s needs on the flanks. His experience could prove invaluable as he aims to establish himself as a pivotal figure in Real Madrid’s new setup.

Jude Bellingham

Distinctive from the previous two players, Jude Bellingham is already making waves in Madrid. As the new management takes shape, a shift in Bellingham’s role could enhance his contributions to the team, maximizing his talent across various positions on the field. Under Alonso, there’s potential for Bellingham to further elevate his performance and impact this coming season.