Xabi Alonso has 7 untouchables and Vini isn't among them, his backbone

Real Madrid has only played 2 matches this season, but Xabi Alonso already has, for now, 7 untouchables. These players are Courtois, Huijsen, Carreras, Tchouaméni, Valverde, Güler, and Mbappé. This group is surprising due to the absence of Vinicius Júnior, who had always kept his status as a very important player.

Although his relevance in the team remains notable, Vinicius has seen changes in his role. Even though he was in the starting line-up for the debut against Osasuna, the Brazilian ended up being substituted. For the match against Oviedo, the player was not a starter, coming on during the second half and being one of those responsible for the victory.

According to what we know at Defensa Central, Xabi has done this to generate more internal competition. The 7 players mentioned above, despite their importance, are not expected to be starters for every match. This is because, given the large number of matches left to play for Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso will have to rotate for some games.

Xabi's trust

Since his very first moment as Real Madrid's coach, Xabi Alonso promised to make changes in the team. His recent results show exactly this, with a team that's more tactically worked and committed to pressing the opponent. Still considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world, Courtois's starting position is not surprising.

Huijsen, despite his youth, has shown himself to be the leader the backline needed, while Carreras has earned his spot due to his profile. Solid in defense and efficient in attack, Carreras is a key player for Xabi. As for the midfield and despite the absences, Tchouaméni, Valverde, and Güler are now the pillars of Real Madrid's midfield.

With the Frenchman being a wall, Valverde helping all over the field, and Güler creating play, the three have earned Xabi's trust. Meanwhile, Mbappé has established himself as the reference point in the Merengue attack. Scoring 3 goals in 2 matches, the Frenchman aims to break the very records he set last season.

The rest of the squad

Despite these 7 untouchables, there are still 4 spots left to complete Xabi Alonso's starting eleven. Vinicius, Endrick, Rodrygo, Brahim, Gonzalo, Mastantuono, Camavinga, Trent, Rüdiger, and Militao are some of those who will fight for a place in the starting line-up. Without detracting from their talent, Xabi seeks more internal competition to keep the squad at an optimal level.