La Liga
Xabi Alonso wasted no time in making weighty decisions since his arrival at Real Madrid's bench. After the team's initial matches in the Club World Cup, the coach made it clear that he does not count on Raúl Asencio for the defensive line and has firmly requested the immediate incorporation of a reliable center-back. The sports management department is already strongly considering three names to reinforce that area: Ibrahima Konaté, Piero Hincapié, and Cristian “Cuti” Romero.
The Spanish defender, expected to step up in this new phase, has shown a fragility not up to the competitive standard demanded by the white club. His positioning errors and lack of composure in key moments have raised concerns within the coaching staff. Xabi Alonso has been clear: he needs a defender who can assume responsibilities from day one.
Xabi Alonso wants a new center-back
The former Bayer Leverkusen coach has been explicit about the desired profile. Hincapié, whom he coached in Germany, is an option that instills confidence due to his ability to play out from the back and adapt to different systems. Konaté, on the other hand, combines power and experience, although complications may arise due to his contractual situation at Liverpool. Meanwhile, with a clear desire to leave Tottenham this summer, Romero is seen as a market opportunity.
Moves have already been initiated from Valdebebas to approach one of these profiles. The directive is clear: to avoid defensive errors that jeopardize the season's objectives. Xabi Alonso seeks solidity and leadership at the back and is not willing to wait. Real Madrid, after a period marked by significant defensive absences, is gearing up to make a statement with a signing that will stabilize its defense.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Los 3 centrales que vigila el Real Madrid por petición de Xabi Alonso
