Xabi Alonso is Real Madrid's number-one candidate to succeed Carlo Ancelotti in 2025, according to credible reports.
Let's take a look at his potential starting eleven lined up in his 'favourite' 3-4-2-1 formation.
Courtois; Militao, Yoro, Rudiger; Couto, Valverde, Tchouameni, Davies; Guler, Bellingham; Mbappe.
Defence. Lille's Leny Yoro is the main man to strengthen Real Madrid's backline this summer already. One season with Ancelotti should be enough for the 18-year-old to gain experience and form a back three with more experienced Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao.
Midfield. Xabi Alonso heavily relies on speedy wing-backs with an eye for goal – Alphonso Davies and Girona's Yan Couto have been the most likely candidates to join the Whites this or next summer. In the middle, two controllers comfortable under pressure are needed; if Toni Kroos retires by then, they could be Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni.
Attacking midfield. It's important for Xabi to have the two players that are particularly good between the lines. Given the likely importance of Couto and Davies up front, it's difficult to imagine Alonso using Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo – he would rather bet on Arda Guler (the local Florian Wirtz) and Jude Bellingham, both of whom are fantastic at creating chances.
Attack. If he joins, Kylian Mbappe will be the main man up front, of course.
Xabi Alonso would surely be aiming to build a team that would do many interesting things in the build-up. It's important for him to have enough players who would do well in half-spaces (Valverde, Bellingham, Guler, possibly Brahim Diaz too), prolific wing-backs, reliable centre-backs and a keen goalscorer.
