'Individuals must sacrifice ego' - Real Madrid's new era

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The 4-0 defeat against Paris St-Germain in the semi-finals of the Club World Cup has reset everything to square one. Manager Xabi Alonso declared that chapter over and now, the focus shifts to how swiftly the team can enhance its performance and how readily it can embrace the new coach's philosophies.

Having started coaching pre-teen players seven years ago, Alonso has now taken the helm at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Basque native, who has been guided by a variety of managers including Javier Clemente, Pep Guardiola, Jose Mourinho, and Carlo Ancelotti, has gleaned valuable insights from each of these distinct coaching styles.

His professional trajectory was meticulously planned. Should his time at Bayer Leverkusen not pan out, he intended to return to the first team at Real Sociedad. If things went according to plan, however, potential opportunities at Bayern Munich, Liverpool - a position he still aspires to - or Real Madrid awaited him. He now finds himself at the Bernabeu, presented with an unparalleled opportunity.

Colleagues have noted that when Alonso speaks, there is an undeniable attentiveness: "He has a way of clarifying complex aspects of the game, almost as if the pace slows down."

Tactically, the Club World Cup served as an initial glimpse into his approach. The recent 4-0 victory over Tirol in Austria reinforced the idea that Madrid will embrace a more positional style of play, consistent with contemporary trends, where individualism must give way to teamwork.

The high pressing strategy aims to reclaim possession while also reducing the defensive responsibilities of Vinicius Jr and Mbappe. However, this raises a crucial question: in a club that has traditionally celebrated individual brilliance, will the superstars accept that the team's success takes precedence? And if they resist, will Alonso have the courage to bench them?

Vinicius and Mbappe: Navigating the Balance

Vinicius has largely defined Madrid's summer story. The Brazilian, whose contract runs until 2027, has yet to formalize the extension anticipated by the club following a verbal agreement made in April. "This is the club of my life," he asserted during the Club World Cup. Nevertheless, Madrid, citing his decline in form, has proposed terms that fall short of his expectations. Vinicius is confident that his on-field performances will compel the club to reconsider.

As for his role on the pitch, it will be quite different. Positioning alongside Mbappe and with Bellingham just behind, he will be required to contribute defensively more than he did under Ancelotti. Off the field, the chemistry between Vinicius and Mbappe has exhibited inconsistencies - both on and off the field. Last season’s team was described as the most challenging Carlo Ancelotti had ever coached. Now, Alonso must ensure that the competing personalities collaborate rather than fragment.

Bellingham and Alexander-Arnold

In the previous season, Jude Bellingham played while dealing with discomfort and was given too much freedom tactically, leading to erratic performances. Alonso aims to refine his role, positioning him closer to the penalty area and the two forwards, aiming to restore the explosive form he displayed in his debut season.

At the same time, Trent Alexander-Arnold finds himself in competition with Dani Carvajal, who is recovering from a serious knee injury. Alexander-Arnold's exceptional passing ability, penchant for line-breaking passes, and precise crosses could transform the right side of Madrid's attack - yet La Liga teams are tactically savvy and will look to exploit any defensive weaknesses during his adjustment period.

Life after Kroos

Finding a replacement for Toni Kroos involves more than just one individual. Dean Huijsen, who joined from Bournemouth, has emerged as a key player in initiating play from the back, with his ability to pass being vital for maintaining the flow of the game.

Aurelien Tchouameni showcases adaptability, either moving back between the center-backs or advancing into midfield to ensure that Madrid maintains control over the space. Meanwhile, Arda Guler is being redefined as a central midfielder. In the match against Tirol, he stood out as Madrid's leading attacker by creating four chances and providing an assist to Mbappe. This repositioning is significant for a player who was primarily utilized as a number 10, potentially leading to a major transformation in his career.

The outlook for Rodrygo

Rodrygo is now encountering greater competition for playing time. Franco Mastantuono, the 18-year-old from Argentina, is at the forefront of a £150m influx of new talent alongside Huijsen, Carreras, and Alexander-Arnold. The 4-3-3 formation employed against Tirol will facilitate his integration, with early comparisons drawn to Lamine Yamal's position at Barcelona since they will occupy similar wings. However, the adjustment period will require patience—while he possesses both skill and character, he has had limited training sessions with the squad.

Even though there is interest from the Premier League, including inquiries from Pep Guardiola last year, Madrid has yet to receive any formal proposals. The club places his market value at above £85m, and while Rodrygo has not expressed a desire to leave, the situation remains fluid—though a departure seems quite improbable. Manchester City have made the decision that Savinho will not be sold, thereby closing that option firmly.