Three people related to Real Madrid appear in a soccer stadium, two of them wearing white uniforms and one in the center wearing dark clothing.
FIRST TEAM

Vinicius and Rodrygo on the bench, Xabi plans an unexpected move after the break

The surprising decision with which Xabi Alonso could affect Vinicius Júnior and Rodrygo Goes

Real Madrid had a perfect start to the season, winning all 3 matches it played. Vinícius and Rodrygo were two of the players who performed best throughout these games. However, as we know at Defensa Central, Xabi could place them on the bench upon Jude Bellingham's return.

After the international break, the Englishman is expected to return to the field at the end of September or the beginning of October. His return would clearly change Xabi's plans for the team completely. Although the club has worked wonderfully with the style the coach has implemented, Jude Bellingham is not a player to keep as a substitute.

The Englishman would bring with him the need for a change that could affect Vinícius and Rodrygo's roles. Even so, all that remains is to wait for the decision Xabi ultimately makes regarding Bellingham's return. For now, the player is staying focused on speeding up his recovery after the shoulder surgery he underwent.

Xabi Alonso's change

Having been a Real Madrid player since the summer of 2023, Jude Bellingham is a key piece of the team. Controlling the midfield while constantly supporting the attack, the Englishman's qualities have been missed. His absence is due to a surgery he had postponed for over a year.

Soccer coach wearing a Real Madrid jacket giving instructions during a match
Xabi giving instructions | Didac Aguirre

After suffering a dislocation in his left shoulder at the end of 2023, Bellingham kept playing thanks to a brace. However, this measure ended up being insufficient and the Englishman underwent surgery after the end of the Club World Cup. With his return date getting closer, Xabi has been planning his tactics with the Englishman.

Although Franco Mastantuono seems to be the one affected by Bellingham's return, Vinícius and Rodrygo could be as well. The coach is well known for seeking to foster competitiveness within the squad. In addition, with the start of tournaments like the Champions League, the desired squad rotations would begin for the team.

The line-up after the break

For now, both Xabi and the rest of Real Madrid are waiting for the end of the international break. The club's next match will be at Anoeta against Real Sociedad. A match where we could start to see changes in preparation for Jude Bellingham's return.

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