Strong message from Xabi Alonso sparks earthquake inside Real Madrid dressing room | OneFootball

Xabi Alonso has wasted no time stamping his authority at Real Madrid.

According to SPORT, his recent rotations during the 3-0 win over Real Oviedo have sent shockwaves through the dressing room, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive, both from the players and within the club offices.

Alonso’s approach has made it clear that no player is untouchable. Meritocracy is once again at the heart of Madrid’s strategy, a major shift from the previous era under Carlo Ancelotti.

The former manager often relied on a fixed starting XI and placed trust in the senior figures, creating a predictable structure. But with Alonso, every position must be earned.

A line-up that sent a message

Against Oviedo, Alonso made four changes to the side that featured in the La Liga opener against Osasuna.

Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rudiger, Rodrygo, and young star Franco Mastantuono started, while Trent Alexander-Arnold, Eder Militao, Vinicius Jr., and Brahim Diaz were benched.

This decision was more than tactical – it was a clear message. The competition for places is now wide open.

Alonso has changed the dynamics at Real Madrid. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Almost every role in the squad is doubled, with the only exceptions being Thibaut Courtois in goal and Kylian Mbappe as the undisputed leader of the attack.

For the rest, no comfort zones exist, and every player must prove their worth on the pitch.

Positive reaction inside Madrid

Rather than causing unrest, Alonso’s rotations have earned him greater respect. Players now see that his words are matched by actions, as he favours hard work and performance over reputation.

The club’s hierarchy has also applauded this approach, believing that the coach is making full use of the squad’s depth.

This shift in mentality is already changing the atmosphere at Madrid. By refusing to stick to any player, Alonso has revitalised a dressing room that had grown too comfortable in recent years.

The message is that every game is a test, and only those who deliver will play.