Xabi Alonso has returned to Real Madrid, but this time he’s not wearing the white shirt — he’s calling the shots from the touchline.
After replacing Carlo Ancelotti as head coach, the former midfield maestro has already begun shaping his plans for the future. And one of his top priorities? Jude Bellingham.
Bellingham has quickly become a fan favorite at the Bernabeu. Since joining from Borussia Dortmund in 2023, the English star has impressed with his goals, assists, and non-stop energy.
But a new manager often means new roles — and Alonso has hinted that Bellingham’s position may be about to shift.
During his first press conference as manager, Alonso said, “He can be special anywhere because he’s a special player. His eruption is that of an era-defining player for Real Madrid.”
Alonso knows a thing or two about running the midfield. Now, he’s ready to help Bellingham take the next step — by pulling the 21-year-old slightly deeper into the engine room.
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Xabi Alonso set to deploy Jude Bellingham in a new role
Bellingham has played higher up the pitch in recent seasons, often acting like a second striker. With 23 goals in his first season and another 14 the next, he’s shown he can finish as well as any forward.
But now with Kylian Mbappe already settled in his first season, Real Madrid may not need Jude playing that role anymore.
Instead, Alonso sees him driving the game from midfield. “I see him as a midfielder,” he said. “We’ll try to make him as efficient as possible.”
That’s music to the ears of Madridistas, who’ve seen greats like Modric and Kroos boss the middle. Alonso clearly believes Bellingham can be the heartbeat of the next great Real side.
With Vinicius and Mbappe ready to attack, and Bellingham running the show behind them, Los Blancos fans could be in for something special.
Xabi’s chessboard is set — and Jude looks like the king in midfield.
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