Maldini is certain: the player who's going to shine the most at Real Madrid under Alonso

Finally, after several months of rumors and speculation, Xabi Alonso has been confirmed as the new coach of Real Madrid. After a historic spell with Bayer Leverkusen, Xabi has been chosen to lead the new Merengue era. Making the official announcement, Xabi's arrival at Real Madrid will bring many changes.

As a coach who always demands a lot from his players, Maldini has revealed who will be the brightest star in the squad. "I think, from the midfielders' point of view, Valverde, without a doubt," were Maldini's words. With this, Maldini expressed his excitement to see the best version of Fede Valverde in his entire career.

"He's the player who already has that ability to press, to push, to be almost an 'all-rounder' at times." With these last words, it became more than clear that Xabi Alonso will be responsible for making Valverde shine more than ever.

Xabi Alonso's star

Having come up through Real Madrid's youth academy, Fede Valverde has established himself as one of the club's best players. Playing his first season with the first team in 2018, Valverde hasn't stopped progressing in an outstanding way. This has been proven in his current role, as the clear leader of Real Madrid's midfield.

After playing 5,406 min. (4,942 min.) this season, Maldini can't wait to witness the level Valverde will reach next season. His words clearly reflect this, with Maldini trusting Xabi Alonso to further enhance Valverde's qualities.

In addition to Valverde, Maldini also made it clear that players like Mbappé and Vinícius will benefit from Xabi's arrival. Even so, all that's left is to wait for Xabi's first matches as Real Madrid's coach to determine his work.

Real Madrid's new leader

After Toni Kroos's retirement and Luka Modric's farewell, all Madridists' eyes are on Fede Valverde. Looking ahead to next season, Valverde will have the enormous challenge of proving that he can be Real Madrid's new leader.