Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has reportedly admitted that the club could have been stronger this season if they had managed to sign Martin Zubimendi this summer.
The revelation comes in the wake of last week’s heavy defeat to Atletico Madrid, which left the squad and coaching staff re-evaluating their midfield options.
According to Fichajes, Zubimendi quickly became Alonso’s obsession after that setback. The coach and his technical team identified the midfielder as the ideal reinforcement, capable of adding control, pace, and stability from the back.
“He would have given Real Madrid a boost,” Alonso reportedly said, highlighting how the player could have provided the balance the team currently lacks.
Midfield reinforcement remains a priority
During internal meetings at the Ciudad Deportiva, the consensus among Alonso’s staff was clear that Zubimendi would have been a crucial addition.
Such unanimity is rare, showing how strongly the coaching staff valued the midfielder’s qualities.
Martin Zubimendi, Arsenal player
Real Madrid missed out on signing Martin Zubimendi. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
In a self-critical assessment, Alonso admitted that relying solely on the attacking talent was not enough.
“We need balance,” he said, reaffirming his belief that a central midfielder like Zubimendi could have provided that stability.
Zubimendi is now a distant dream
It is said that Zubimendi himself reportedly wanted to join Real Madrid, but by the time Alonso was fully involved, Arsenal had already secured his signature by activating his release clause.
While Alonso has assured Florentino Perez that he trusts the current squad to compete on all fronts, he has made it clear that central midfield reinforcements will remain a top priority in the 2026 transfer window.
For Alonso, there are no excuses. The defeat to Atletico has only reinforced his long-term vision for the team, which is to build a squad that is balanced, competitive, and capable of sustaining success.
Yet, the missed chance to sign Zubimendi remains a regret for the club, a reminder of the importance of timing and decisive action in the transfer market.