Five Players Set to Leave Real Madrid: Xabi Alonso’s First Cuts Revealed
Xabi Alonso may not be officially on the Real Madrid bench yet, but behind the scenes, he’s already outlining plans for next season. Among his first decisive moves is identifying five players who are unlikely to continue under his leadership.
The names on the potential exit list are: Jesús Vallejo, Lucas Vázquez, Luka Modrić, Dani Ceballos, and Ferland Mendy — each for different reasons, but with one common factor: they do not fit into Alonso’s vision for the future.
1. Jesús Vallejo – A Departure Long Overdue
Vallejo’s exit has felt inevitable, regardless of who manages the team. After eight years with minimal impact at Real Madrid, the central defender has failed to prove himself. Even his rare appearance against Sevilla — in a match of no consequence — won’t change the club’s stance. His future lies elsewhere.
2. Lucas Vázquez – From Reliable Backup to Liability
Lucas Vázquez has come under fire, particularly after Dani Carvajal’s injury left him as the only option at right-back. His performances have been widely criticized, and with the possible arrival of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Carvajal’s return to full fitness, the Galician is expected to be pushed out. Despite five Champions League titles to his name, his time at the club may be drawing to a close.
3. Luka Modrić – A Legend at a Crossroads
At nearly 40 years old, Luka Modrić still offers moments of brilliance, despite playing a more secondary role. Reports suggest Xabi Alonso has requested the club to consider renewing his contract for one more season, partly to allow the Croatian to reach the 2026 World Cup as a Madrid player. His future remains uncertain — a decision yet to be finalized.
4. Dani Ceballos – A Talent Held Back by Injuries
Ceballos showed flashes of quality this season, but injuries derailed his progress at the worst possible time. While he fulfills his role as a substitute, the expectation for him to take over from Toni Kroos as the midfield conductor seems out of reach. Should a decent offer arrive, Real Madrid is likely to cash in.
5. Ferland Mendy – The Injury-Prone Puzzle
Mendy’s constant injury setbacks have made his continuity difficult. Once seen as the long-term solution at left-back, the Frenchman has spent more time in recovery than on the pitch. Offloading him may prove tricky, given his fitness record, but the club seems ready to move on.
Vallejo and Lucas Vázquez are the most likely to say their goodbyes this Saturday, when Real Madrid hosts Real Sociedad. The fates of Modrić, Ceballos, and Mendy are still under review — but their future at the Bernabéu is anything but secure.
