How is REAL MADRID’s rebuild going under XABI ALONSO? Is the team strong enough to compete for the European Cup?

As Xabi Alonso settles into his new role at the helm of Real Madrid, the football world watches with intense curiosity. Taking over one of the most demanding positions in world football, Alonso inherits not only a squad full of generational talent but also the responsibility to restore the club’s dominance in Europe. With expectations sky-high and history casting a long shadow, how is the rebuild really going?

Alonso’s first step has been to instill a clear tactical identity. Renowned for his intelligence as a player and his success with Bayer Leverkusen, he is shaping Madrid into a more structured, balanced unit—without sacrificing the attacking flair that defines Los Blancos. His focus has been on tightening the midfield and defensive transitions, a weakness exposed during crucial Champions League knockout rounds in recent years.

The current squad remains rich with talent. Jude Bellingham, who has quickly become one of Europe’s standout midfielders, continues to be a cornerstone in Alonso’s system. Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo provide width, pace, and directness in attack, while Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga offer dynamism and work rate in central areas. These players are not only the present but the future of Madrid.

Veterans like Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos are still around—not as regular starters, but as stabilizing influences. Their experience and mentorship are invaluable in guiding younger teammates through the pressures of competing at the highest level. Alonso has praised their leadership both on and off the pitch.

New faces are also beginning to shine. Arda Güler, the Turkish wonderkid, is expected to get more game time this season after an injury-hampered debut campaign. Fran García is proving reliable at left-back, while Brahim Díaz’s versatility is giving Alonso more options across the frontline and midfield.

But a rebuild isn’t just about maximizing the players already on the books. Alonso and the Real Madrid board are actively targeting reinforcements for the summer of 2025. One of the main priorities is to bolster the defense. Arsenal’s William Saliba is at the top of the list—a strong, intelligent, and technically skilled defender who would add composure at the back. However, luring him from North London won’t be easy.

Should a move for Saliba fail, Ibrahima Konaté of Liverpool has emerged as an alternative. Konaté’s physicality and aerial prowess fit the profile Alonso is after, and the club is closely monitoring his contract situation. Whether Liverpool would be willing to part with the Frenchman remains to be seen.

In midfield, Alonso dreams of bringing in Manchester City’s Rodri. Though the move seems unlikely due to Rodri’s pivotal role under Pep Guardiola, Real Madrid are keeping tabs in case the Spaniard’s situation changes. A long-term replacement for Casemiro has never fully materialized, and Rodri would be the ideal solution.

Another name on the radar is Theo Hernández. A former Real Madrid youth product, Theo has blossomed at AC Milan into one of Europe’s top left-backs. If Ferland Mendy leaves in the upcoming window, Real may push for a reunion with the Frenchman, who offers both attacking flair and defensive resilience.

Ultimately, Real Madrid’s rebuild under Xabi Alonso is not a radical revolution but a strategic evolution. The foundation laid by Carlo Ancelotti remains strong, and Alonso is layering on his own ideas: more pressing, positional discipline, and squad depth. His aim is to build a team capable of not just domestic dominance but consistent Champions League success.

As the 2025–26 season looms, Real Madrid fans have every reason to feel hopeful. Alonso’s calm authority, coupled with the club’s unmatched resources and youth development, could be the winning formula for another era of European glory. But with teams like Manchester City, Bayern Munich, and PSG constantly improving, the road to the European Cup is as competitive as ever.

The early signs are promising, but only time will tell if Xabi Alonso can lead Real Madrid back to the summit of European football. For now, the rebuild is well underway—and the rest of Europe should take notice.