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FIRST TEAM

The 4 players out of Xabi Alonso's plans: not a single minute in 3 matchdays

The situation of four Real Madrid players who have not been considered by Xabi Alonso at the start of the season

3 wins out of 3 possible is the record with which Real Madrid has concluded the month of August. This is an ideal situation for a team that has a very well-covered squad in all positions. However, as we know at Defensa Central, Alaba, Asencio, Fran García, and Lunin are not part of Xabi Alonso's plans.

Even though the season will be long, the lack of minutes these players have played is surprising. Fran García, above all, went from being an undisputed starter at the Club World Cup to returning to being the backup left-back. This is largely due to the outstanding level of Álvaro Carreras, who has exceeded all expectations.

Alaba, meanwhile, doesn't have the coach's trust given his recent history. Even though he was an important player for Real Madrid in the past, his current condition raises many doubts. The Austrian center-back, after the injuries he has suffered in recent years, has experienced a decline in his level.

Real Madrid's substitutes

Despite the great start to the season, Real Madrid knows it will be better when it has its full squad. Camavinga, Bellingham, Endrick, and Mendy are the players who are still recovering from their injuries. Although the date of their return is unknown, this would leave even fewer opportunities for Alaba, Asencio, Fran García, and Lunin.

Real Madrid player giving an interview in front of a backdrop with sponsor logos and the FIFA Club World Cup emblem
Fran García | Didac Aguirre

As for the Ukrainian goalkeeper, his current situation really is not a surprise. From the moment he arrived, Xabi Alonso made it clear that his starting goalkeeper would be Thibaut Courtois. However, Raúl Asencio's situation has certainly sparked a lot of discussion after his great debut campaign.

Having been one of the best players last season, Asencio has been relegated at Real Madrid. Although the reasons are unknown, his mistakes at the Club World Cup may have played a role. In addition, given the outstanding level of Dean Huijsen and Militao's recovery, the Spanish center-back could play a reduced number of minutes.

Xabi Alonso's decision

With the transfer window just a few hours from closing, selling any of the aforementioned players is not an option. Real Madrid will have to play the season with a 25-man squad. This number could end up being helpful for the club given the rotations Xabi Alonso plans to make.

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