Report: Transfer Moves Hint at Madrid’s Long-Term Plan | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s Strategic Shift Under Xabi Alonso: Transfers, Talent, and Tactical Evolution

Trio of Signings Signals a New Era

Real Madrid have wasted no time strengthening their squad, making headlines with three notable acquisitions: Dean Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Franco Mastantuono. While the failed bid for Benfica’s Alvaro Carreras may have left a small dent, the message is clear — Madrid are building not just for today, but for the next decade.

New boss Xabi Alonso has been keen to shift focus onto the pitch. As he said ahead of the Club World Cup: “We are in the Club World Cup and we are not in the phase of how to improve the current squad, but in the competition.” Still, the transfer activity paints a broader picture of his long-term thinking.

Mastantuono the Marquee: Madrid’s Teenage Investment

One of the standout stories from Madrid’s summer is the €63 million capture of 17-year-old Franco Mastantuono from River Plate. It’s not just the fee that grabs attention — it’s what Alonso sees in him. According to The Athletic, “the most interesting part of his profile is that he can be developed into a goalscoring forward or a playmaker — or even both at once.”

Photo: IMAGO

Alonso personally advocated for the Argentine, and Madrid’s plan is clear: Mastantuono will operate from the right wing but drift centrally as a hybrid No.10. Arda Guler, meanwhile, will drop deeper into midfield — showcasing the manager’s willingness to craft flexible, multidimensional roles.

Backup Roles and Academy Breakouts

While Madrid still seek reinforcements — especially at left-back and centre-forward — Xabi Alonso’s current solutions are drawing from within. Gonzalo Garcia, a Castilla forward, has capitalised on Endrick’s injury and Kylian Mbappe’s illness. He scored in Alonso’s managerial debut against Al Hilal and contributed again versus Pachuca.

Initially tipped to leave for more game time, Gonzalo may have forced a rethink. His performances “Stateside could change his situation,” notes The Athletic.

Rodrygo’s Uncertain Future

Another developing story involves Rodrygo. Despite providing an assist against Al Hilal, he was overlooked entirely in the following match. The likes of Brahim Diaz and even academy winger Victor Munoz were favoured ahead of him.

While his representatives have rebuffed Premier League interest — with Arsenal linked — The Athletic suggests that “what happens at the Club World Cup could play a decisive role in his future.” With potential changes at left-back and the continuing pursuit of Carreras, Madrid’s summer still has moving parts.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Madridista’s perspective, this article by The Athletic captures the essence of what makes this summer unique — the blend of audacity and foresight. Signing Mastantuono for €63 million is not just a financial flex; it’s a declaration that Real Madrid will lead the next generation of global football talent. Fans will be encouraged by Alonso’s hands-on role in these acquisitions, suggesting his vision aligns with the club’s storied DNA.

Gonzalo Garcia’s emergence at the Club World Cup is a particularly proud moment for supporters who champion La Fábrica. Seeing academy talent not only compete but impress on the global stage reinforces Madrid’s identity beyond galáctico signings.

Rodrygo’s uncertain future might stir mixed emotions — he’s been pivotal in past campaigns — but competition is fierce, and meritocracy under Alonso is becoming clear. If someone like Victor Munoz is getting minutes ahead of him, fans will trust there’s method behind it.

Ultimately, supporters will appreciate that while the immediate goal is Club World Cup glory, the club’s eyes are firmly on the horizon.