Xabi Alonso’s First Major Decision at Real Madrid Affects Asencio and Endrick

The most exciting new project for Real Madrid fans lies in the hands of Xabi Alonso. According to multiple reports, the Basque coach will arrive to replace Carlo Ancelotti at the end of the current LaLiga season. The first adjustments envisioned by the current Bayer Leverkusen manager are already beginning to take shape at Real Madrid — and they’re just the beginning.

That’s because Alonso has many more changes in mind than those already made or discussed. The shake-up in the Santiago Bernabéu dressing room will also affect two players in very different positions this season: Spanish center-back Raúl Asencio and Brazilian striker Endrick.

Xabi Alonso’s Trust in Asencio

The situation surrounding Raúl Asencio has a clear solution in Xabi Alonso’s mind: he wants Asencio to become a guaranteed starter in his tactical setup, regardless of whether he uses a back four or three center-backs. This starting spot for Asencio will not be affected even by the likely arrival of Dean Huijsen from AFC Bournemouth this summer.

That stance won’t change with the return of Antonio Rüdiger or Éder Militão, two center-backs who were key starters under Carlo Ancelotti. Nor would it shift with the potential return of David Alaba, whose position in the first team has become increasingly uncertain. With his contract ending in 2026, Alaba’s role next season could be mostly symbolic.

Endrick, A Key Piece in Xabi Alonso’s Attack

Xabi Alonso also views Endrick, the Brazilian number 16, as one of the key pieces in his new starting XI and rotation plans — both mid-game and throughout the season. The young striker from Taguatinga had a less prominent role than expected under Ancelotti, a situation that’s expected to change dramatically with Alonso in charge. The new coaching staff sees him as a reference point for making attacking changes.

From Almost Nothing to a Major Role

It’s not just about Endrick’s work ethic and physical boldness shown in various matches. Despite his relatively short height compared to other forwards, Endrick is a natural center-forward — and Alonso believes this is a crucial profile to reinforce. Initially, Real Madrid were expected to target a true number 9 in the transfer market… but Endrick’s presence may change all those plans.

Now, Alonso believes he already has a natural striker. While Kylian Mbappé has often played in the center-forward role this season, the Frenchman doesn’t entirely fit the profile Alonso is looking for. Instead, the Basque coach appears to have found those qualities in Endrick, who is hoping to play many more minutes in what will be his first full season with the Spanish giants.