Real Madrid player in the foreground with two figures in circles in the background, one of them training and the other with a serious expression. — Xabi Alonso's work keeps yielding results with the players | Real Madrid Confidencial

Camara — Xabi Alonso's work keeps yielding results with the players | Real Madrid Confidencial

First Mbappé and now Endrick and Mendy, Xabi Alonso bets on change

After their injuries, there is a clear physical change in Ferland Mendy and Endrick

28/08/2025 22:40:00h

Sergio Iglesias

Real Madrid has started a new era under the leadership of Xabi Alonso. One of the aspects that has drawn the most attention at the beginning is the clear physical change in several players. The coaching staff accompanying the coach from Donostia has implemented a different philosophy in preparation, prioritizing lightness, agility, and endurance.

The first images from training sessions and preseason matches had already sparked comments among fans. Footballers who previously had a more robust build now look more streamlined. The perfect example is Kylian Mbappé, who now looks much more like the player he was at Monaco or in his early years in Paris.

Soccer player training with the ball while other players watch on the training field

Kylian Mbappé has regained much of his agility and lightness | Real Madrid Confidencial

The club explains that the goal is clear: to have players capable of sustaining intensity for 90 minutes in a play style that demands constant pressing. However, Xabi Alonso also had the task of keeping some of its footballers light. Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius, or Arda Güler are examples of players who need to be physically strong, but whose agility is also essential.

Real Madrid has changed its working methods

The change hasn't happened in isolation. Xabi Alonso's team of fitness coaches has modified both the routines in the gym and the nutritional planning. Strength work is still present, but with a more functional approach: lower maximum loads and more mobility, coordination, and explosive power exercises.

The transformation is also noticeable in defense. Ferland Mendy and Éder Militão present a lighter image, without losing strength in duels, but gaining in reaction speed. The instruction is clear: in a team that seeks to defend forward, every tenth of a second in ball recovery can make the difference.

Beyond the aesthetic, this change reflects a new philosophy: a soccer where technique and tactical intelligence are enhanced by a physique optimized for constant effort. Real Madrid, ultimately, isn't looking for gym footballers, but complete athletes capable of responding to the demands of an ambitious game plan.

➡️ First Team