Xabi Alonso
Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images
According to MARCA, Real Madrid’s pre-season match against Austrian side WSG Tirol is set to provide an early glimpse into Xabi Alonso’s tactical thinking.
Despite the absence of Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga, it is said that the new manager has already been shaping his approach since the squad returned from their summer break.
The game in Innsbruck will be more than just a fitness exercise, as it will be a small window into how Alonso envisions his first season in charge.
The report highlights that while midfield options are currently limited, decisions in defence and attack will be closely watched.
With Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao now fully recovered from their injuries, Alonso faces an important choice in restoring two players who were previously considered untouchable under Carlo Ancelotti.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JUNE 25: Head coach Xabi Alonso of Real Madrid CF faces the media during a press Conference ahead of their FIFA Club World Cup 2025 match against FC Salzburg at Lincoln Financial Field on June 25, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Xabi Alonso has important decisions to make. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
In attack, the big question will be how he deploys Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappe together. Selecting the right partner for the Brazilian and finding the right balance between the two superstars could be crucial in shaping Madrid’s offensive identity this season.
Two of Madrid’s four summer signings are still waiting for their turn to feature in for the team.
While Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold have already made their Club World Cup debuts, Alvaro Carreras is set to step onto the pitch against Tirol.
Meanwhile, young Argentine talent Franco Mastantuono is also among the fresh faces yet to fully integrate. However, it is to be noted that he will not play in this match.
Despite the new arrivals, Alonso’s ideal starting XI remains a work in progress. Midfield stands out as the area with the most uncertainty, both in terms of personnel and tactical balance.
The absence of Bellingham and Camavinga has made it clear that Madrid still need time to find the right blend in the centre of the pitch.
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Alonso will carefully manage Valverde’s minutes. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)