On Monday, Real Madrid presented Xabi Alonso as their new first-team manager, replacing Carlo Ancelotti who has already taken over as the Brazil head coach.
The 43-year-old former midfielder arrives at the Santiago Bernabeu a few weeks away from the FIFA Club World Cup – a competition that Los Blancos are eager to win to end the 2024/25 season on a strong note.
Alonso’s arrival also means that several Real Madrid academy players he once coached during his early days as a coach are in line to gain an edge.
Chema Andres one to keep an eye on
In fact, according to AS, young midfielder Chema Andres may have the clearest path to a first-team role at Real Madrid with Alonso at the helm of affairs.
While Real Madrid have a number of midfielders, there is a lack of depth when it comes to the pivot position – and that is where Chema can come in handy.
Academy talents to get a chance under Xabi Alonso. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
The 20-year-old La Fabrica talent showed his ability under Raul at Castilla and earned brief appearances in La Liga and Copa del Rey under Ancelotti.
Now, with Alonso taking charge of the senior team, Chema, who worked with the new manager during his Infantil A days, stands a chance of making it on the big stage.
Who else could get an opportunity?
Another player with a history with Alonso and who can get a big chance in the senior setup is Jacobo Ramon.
The young defender already featured for the first team this season towards the final stages and could be in contention for a bigger role under Alonso along with fellow academy centre-back Joan Martinez.
20-year-old striker Iker Gil, who is set to return to Madrid after a loan stint at SD Ejea could also be an option, considering he enjoyed a prolific season under Alonso in the past.