RealMadridConfidencial Xabi Alonso is clear about it: this is his center-back duo for Real Madrid 2025-26
Xabi Alonso would have already planned his choice for his defense for next season
According to information from La Razón, Xabi Alonso's idea is to place Huijsen and Rüdiger as starting center-backs. Obviously, he could put this into practice when the German defender is at 100% of his physical level (100%). This would mean Asencio and Militao would remain on the bench, waiting to see how the Brazilian returns.
Although Xabi values Asencio highly, he believes Rüdiger is still superior and can contribute a lot to the team. In fact, Real Madrid aren't ruling out renewing the defender's contract until 2027, but nothing has been finalized yet. The Madrid youth academy graduate has already extended his contract and hasn't demanded a starting spot to sign, so he will accept his role and will keep working.
Additionally, it's important to keep in mind that Xabi Alonso is going to rotate; he won't allow Rüdiger to wear himself out during the next season. There are players who need more rest than others, and that's something the coaching staff will take very seriously. For that reason, Asencio will play quite a few minutes.
He will have opportunities
He is now coming off two serious mistakes in two consecutive World Cup matches and will serve a one-match suspension. When he returns, depending on how Rüdiger is, he will occupy one place or another in the team. In any case, Asensio is a hardworking and confident young man; he won't give up.
What he needs to do is keep on the same path and learn from those mistakes. It's normal for him to make them, because he has only spent one season competing at the elite level and he is 22 years old. He will surely not make the same mistake again next time.
Everyone supports him
At Real Madrid, they are on Raúl Asencio's side and value what he has done so far very highly. They believe he is going to be one of the best defenders in the world and they are very calm, despite his recent mistakes. These are things that can be improved with experience and work, so there won't be any problem.
With Xabi Alonso, almost no one will have a guaranteed starting spot. The coach values meritocracy highly and will always try to reward those who work the hardest and perform the best. Everyone will have their opportunity.
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