Xabi Alonso Has Decided the Fate of One of the Team’s Key Stars and Has Opted to Part Ways With Him Immediately During the Upcoming Transfer Window

A new chapter has begun at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu, and with it, Real Madrid fans are already witnessing the first waves of transformation under newly appointed head coach Xabi Alonso. Known for his deep footballing intelligence and calm authority, Alonso is wasting no time in shaping the club’s next era.

The Spanish tactician has made it clear that his vision for Real Madrid is built around tactical discipline, positional structure, and a modern, aggressive style of play. His blueprint for the team demands a squad that not only aligns with his footballing ideals but also possesses the versatility and physical profile needed to dominate both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.

Alonso’s meticulous approach to squad restructuring is already producing headlines. According to multiple Spanish media outlets, one of his first major decisions involves a surprising but decisive move—opting to part ways with French left-back Ferland Mendy in the upcoming summer transfer window.

This decision has caught many fans and pundits off guard. Mendy has long been a reliable defensive presence in Real Madrid’s backline. His speed, tactical awareness, and ability to handle one-on-one situations made him a favorite under previous coach Carlo Ancelotti, who once boldly claimed Mendy was the best left-back in the world.

However, football evolves, and so do managerial preferences. Xabi Alonso, despite acknowledging Mendy’s strengths, is believed to have reservations about the Frenchman’s suitability for his new system. Reports suggest that Alonso is looking for a left-back with greater attacking prowess, better build-up play, and the ability to contribute creatively in the final third—qualities Mendy has struggled to consistently display.

Additionally, Alonso is placing a high emphasis on physicality and height in defensive roles, especially for players expected to feature in aerial duels and set-piece scenarios. Mendy, though defensively sturdy, does not offer significant aerial dominance or the kind of overlapping danger that modern full-backs like Alphonso Davies or Alejandro Grimaldo bring to the table.

Mendy’s decline in favor within the team’s hierarchy has also coincided with Ancelotti’s departure. The Italian coach had been a major supporter of Mendy, even advocating for a contract extension which was finalized not long ago—extending the Frenchman’s stay until June 2028 with a notable salary bump. But with Ancelotti gone, Mendy’s strongest internal backer has also left the building.

The winds have shifted at Valdebebas. Xabi Alonso is now preparing to install his own trusted structure, and tough decisions are being made in the process. Mendy’s departure is expected to create room for new arrivals who better align with Alonso’s tactical requirements.

Spanish outlet Sport claims that Real Madrid are already scouting potential replacements. One of the leading candidates is Álvaro Carreras, currently playing for Benfica. Carreras fits the mold of what Alonso is reportedly seeking: a left-back with technical elegance, attacking drive, and positional intelligence.

Carreras has had a breakout season in Portugal, catching the eye with his consistent performances, dynamic overlaps, and pinpoint crosses. If the move materializes, it would be seen as a strong signal that Real Madrid is moving toward a more progressive, attack-minded full-back system—likely a reflection of Alonso’s time in German football where such profiles are prioritized.

This transition, while logical from a tactical standpoint, is not without emotional weight. Mendy was part of a Real Madrid squad that lifted multiple titles, including La Liga, the Champions League, and Supercopa de España. His contribution to some of Madrid’s biggest matches cannot be overlooked, especially in clutch defensive situations.

Nevertheless, Real Madrid’s history is built on reinvention. Legendary players have come and gone, all in pursuit of sustaining the club’s competitive edge on the global stage. Alonso’s decision may appear harsh, but it signals his commitment to not just managing Real Madrid—but elevating it.

It’s worth noting that Mendy still holds value in the transfer market. With his contract running until 2028 and experience at the highest level, there is expected to be significant interest from clubs in France, England, and Italy. Real Madrid are expected to recoup a respectable fee which can be reinvested into squad upgrades.

This bold move also reflects Alonso’s personality as a manager—calculated, courageous, and clear-headed. He isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo, even when it involves a well-established player. In doing so, he is asserting his authority early and setting a precedent for what’s to come.

For Mendy, this summer will be a crossroads. A move to a different league could offer him the chance to reinvent himself and play a leading role elsewhere. For Madrid, it will be the first step in building a backline that reflects a new era—one that Xabi Alonso is determined to lead with vision and purpose.

As the transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Madrid’s next steps. But one thing is certain: the Alonso era has officially begun, and no one’s place is guaranteed.