A shake-up in the dressing room… Xabi Alonso announces his golden list and surprises Vinícius by leaving him out!

At Valdebebas, Real Madrid’s training ground, the new season has started with an unusual atmosphere. From the very first day of pre-season, the intensity has been far higher than expected, with Xabi Alonso sending strong messages to his squad. The Spanish coach, who returned to Madrid after proving himself at Bayer Leverkusen, is quietly crafting a bold plan for the team — one that could redefine the identity of Los Blancos. Yet, it is not just the tactical adjustments that are drawing attention. It is the surprising decisions he has made in selecting his so-called “golden list” of players, with one shocking omission: Vinícius Jr.

Vinícius has been a symbol of Real Madrid’s attacking brilliance in recent years, dazzling fans with his speed, flair, and ability to change games. To see him left out of Alonso’s preferred core group has sparked debate both inside and outside the club. While some insiders believe this move is only temporary — perhaps a motivational tactic — others suggest that Alonso is ready to impose a stricter discipline, where no player is untouchable.

The decision reflects Alonso’s determination to reshape the dressing room dynamic. In recent months, whispers of tension and cliques within the squad have surfaced. By leaving out a high-profile figure like Vinícius, Alonso appears to be making a statement: team cohesion and tactical obedience come before individual stardom. This marks a clear shift from past years, when marquee players were rarely challenged, regardless of form or behavior.

Behind this bold call lies Alonso’s footballing philosophy. His time in Germany taught him the value of collective effort, structured pressing, and tactical intelligence. He is determined to bring those principles to Madrid, even if it means clashing with established names. His “golden list” reportedly highlights players who embody discipline, versatility, and a willingness to sacrifice for the team. Among them are Aurélien Tchouaméni, Federico Valverde, and Jude Bellingham — figures Alonso views as cornerstones of the new era.

Interestingly, young center-back Dean Huijsen has also been included, underlining Alonso’s faith in youth and fresh talent. Huijsen’s performances in domestic competitions last season impressed the coaching staff, and the new manager seems eager to hand him greater responsibility. Meanwhile, veteran goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is close to extending his contract, signaling that Alonso values his leadership and presence in the squad.

Despite Bellingham’s current absence due to injury, Alonso continues to view the Englishman as central to his tactical vision. Alongside Kylian Mbappé, who is expected to take on a decisive role in attack once fully settled, Bellingham will form the spine of the system Alonso is trying to build. The duo are seen as the engines of a more dynamic, aggressive, and unpredictable Real Madrid.

The omission of Vinícius, however, raises important questions. Is this a long-term tactical decision, or simply a short-term disciplinary measure? Those close to the team suggest Alonso wants to test the Brazilian’s commitment and mentality. While Vinícius remains immensely popular among fans, Alonso believes that no individual can be allowed to disrupt the balance he is trying to achieve. This could be a crucial turning point in the winger’s relationship with the club.

Madridistas have reacted with mixed emotions. Some believe Alonso’s approach is necessary, injecting accountability into a dressing room that has, at times, relied too heavily on individual brilliance. Others fear that sidelining Vinícius risks losing one of the team’s biggest match-winners, particularly with a tough La Liga and Champions League campaign ahead. Either way, the coach’s authority is being tested from the outset.

For Alonso himself, this is the beginning of a defining journey. He has inherited a squad filled with world-class talent but also heavy expectations. The supporters demand success, Florentino Pérez demands dominance, and the players demand clarity. By announcing a golden list and leaving out a superstar, Alonso has shown he is not afraid of confrontation — a trait that could either solidify his reign or create new tensions.

The upcoming weeks will reveal more. If Madrid start the season strongly, Alonso’s methods will be praised as bold and visionary. But if results falter, the Vinícius decision may be used against him, fueling debates about whether the team can thrive without one of its most explosive forwards. Either way, the shake-up in the dressing room has already ensured that this season will be unlike any other in recent Real Madrid history.

What remains undeniable is that Real Madrid are entering a new chapter — one where discipline, structure, and tactical order might finally outweigh the chaos of individual magic. And in this story, Alonso has made it clear: no one, not even Vinícius Jr., is guaranteed a place at the table.