Newly-appointed Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has reportedly settled on a 4-3-3 formation as his tactical foundation at the Spanish giants, marking a clear shift from the three-at-the-back setup he used successfully at Bayer Leverkusen.
According to Spanish sports outlet Marca, the 43-year-old tactician—who was unveiled as Carlo Ancelotti’s successor at the Santiago Bernabéu—has evaluated his squad and determined that the traditional 4-3-3 structure better suits the players currently at his disposal.
Alonso Chooses Tradition Over Innovation
Alonso’s choice to adopt a 4-3-3 system rather than the 3-4-2-1 shape he employed to devastating effect in Germany is seen as both a strategic and symbolic decision. During his time at Bayer Leverkusen, Alonso built a title-winning team using a back-three system that emphasized flexibility, fluid build-up play, and wing-back dynamism. However, in Madrid, sources close to the club say Alonso believes the 4-3-3 offers the most balance for the current squad.
“Xabi understands the DNA of Real Madrid,” a source close to the club told Marca. “He wants to blend tactical discipline with expressive football, and he believes a 4-3-3 system allows that.”
Alonso, a Champions League-winning midfielder during his playing days at both Real Madrid and Liverpool, has always favored tactical intelligence and positional discipline. However, he is also known for pragmatism—a trait that has served him well throughout his rapid managerial rise.
Building on Ancelotti’s Legacy
Alonso’s appointment comes following the departure of Carlo Ancelotti, who officially vacated his post to become the head coach of the Brazil national team. The Italian tactician enjoyed immense success in his second spell at Madrid, securing multiple domestic and continental titles while helping to nurture the next generation of stars like Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurélien Tchouaméni.
While Alonso is expected to introduce his own ideas, his formation choice suggests a desire for continuity rather than wholesale change. The 4-3-3 system was a staple of Ancelotti’s setup and has historically been the tactical identity of Real Madrid, particularly during their Champions League three-peat under Zinedine Zidane.
“Xabi knows that the players are familiar with 4-3-3, and he doesn’t want to disrupt the rhythm,” Spanish football journalist Guillermo Garcia told TVE Deportes. “He will gradually add his own philosophy, but without reinventing the wheel.”
Preparations Begin for FIFA Club World Cup
Alonso’s tactical plans are expected to be tested almost immediately, with Real Madrid gearing up for the FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off later this month. The reigning UEFA Champions League winners are set to face Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal in their first match on June 18 at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida.
This will be Alonso’s official debut as Real Madrid manager, and expectations are sky-high. The Club World Cup is viewed as an opportunity to stamp authority early and earn silverware while familiarizing himself with competitive match management at the helm of Europe’s most decorated club.
“Every competition is important when you’re at Real Madrid,” Alonso said in a brief comment after taking over the job. “We will approach the Club World Cup with full focus and the aim to win, but also to continue learning and growing as a group.”
Squad Suitability Drives Tactical Decisions
Alonso’s decision to use a 4-3-3 formation is said to be heavily influenced by Madrid’s wealth of attacking and midfield options. The likes of Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Brahim Díaz all thrive in wide roles, while midfield stars like Luka Modrić, Federico Valverde, and Jude Bellingham excel in systems that allow them to push forward and connect the lines.
The defensive core, anchored by Éder Militão and Antonio Rüdiger, is also more accustomed to playing in a four-man backline. This familiarity is expected to smooth the transition under Alonso and reduce the tactical friction that can come with a change in formation.
“Playing three at the back demands a very specific type of player and cohesion,” football analyst Javier Mata explained on La Sexta. “Alonso understands that forcing that change immediately could disrupt the natural flow of the team.”
Alonso’s Coaching Journey Comes Full Circle
Xabi Alonso’s return to Madrid marks a symbolic homecoming. The former Spain international won La Liga, the Champions League, and Copa del Rey with Los Blancos between 2009 and 2014. After transitioning into coaching, he impressed with Real Sociedad’s youth team before taking the top job at Leverkusen in 2022.
In Germany, Alonso transformed Leverkusen from mid-table strugglers into Bundesliga champions, ending Bayern Munich’s decade-long dominance. His tactical flexibility, attention to detail, and motivational skills drew praise from across Europe.
Now at the helm of one of the most demanding clubs in world football, Alonso appears ready to embrace both the pressure and the expectations.
“It’s a dream to return to this club,” Alonso said during his official presentation at the Santiago Bernabéu. “I know what Real Madrid means. I’m here to continue its great legacy and build a future with the players we have.”
What Fans Can Expect
With Alonso’s system now in place, Madridistas can expect a team that emphasizes possession control, disciplined midfield rotations, and aggressive pressing in transition. The classic 4-3-3 structure also opens up the possibility for tactical tweaks, such as shifting into a 4-2-3-1 when needed, especially in tougher European fixtures.
For now, though, all eyes are on the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup fixture against Al-Hilal, where Alonso’s formation, player selections, and in-game management will come under the microscope.
One thing is certain: Xabi Alonso’s new era at Real Madrid is officially underway, and it begins with a nod to tradition—and a clear vision for the future.
