How did Xabi Alonso reshape Real Madrid’s identity?

Since taking over at Real Madrid just days before the Club World Cup, Xabi Alonso has demonstrated remarkable tactical prowess, relying on a mental flexibility that transcends traditional patterns.

He has not limited himself to a single system, but has instead deployed diverse formations that adapt to the nature of the opponent and the circumstances of the match. In some matches, Alonso has relied on a three-man defense, with the fullbacks transforming into attacking wingers in a 3-5-2 system, enhancing the attacking force.

At other times, he has resorted to a four-man defense in a 4-3-3 formation to ensure greater defensive solidity. This flexibility in switching between a 3-4-2-1 and a 4-3-3 has given Real Madrid a dynamic identity, transcending the team’s traditional legacy, making the system more adaptable, both technically and individually.

Fran Garcia: From Weak Link to Winning Card

At the beginning of the season, Fran Garcia wasn’t among the team’s most dependable players in big matches. In fact, Real Madrid fans harshly criticized him, considering him the weakest link on the left flank due to his inconsistent performances.

However, with the arrival of Xabi Alonso, the picture changed radically. Fran transformed from a player who faced doubts to a key component of the team’s plans, reflecting Alonso’s ability to reshape players’ roles and exploit their potential.

Alonso not only gave Fran more playing time, but also redesigned his tactical role. Fran was no longer just a traditional defensive full-back, but rather an attacking winger in some formations, especially when a defensive trio was deployed, giving him the freedom to advance without worrying about defensive cover.

Fran also benefited from the support of Bellingham and Modric, who provided him with assists and defensive cover, allowing him to launch with greater confidence.

More importantly, however, was the mental shift. Alonso boosted Fran’s self-confidence, making him feel like an integral part of the project, not just a backup option.

This was reflected in his performance on the pitch, as he became calmer under pressure and better at making decisions, both passing and dribbling.

His statistics also improved significantly at the Club World Cup, where he scored a crucial goal and provided an assist against Borussia Dortmund, a match described by the Spanish press as “the rebirth of Fran Garcia.”