Real Madrid’s Xabi Alonso Chooses 4-3-3 Formation Amid Defensive Constraints

Xabi Alonso, the new Real Madrid manager, has decided to implement a 4-3-3 formation instead of the 3-4-2-1 or 5-3-2 systems he used at Bayer Leverkusen. This tactical change reflects the current squad's limitations, particularly due to significant injuries among key center-backs such as Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, and David Alaba. With only Raúl Asencio and Dean Huijsen available as natural center-backs for the Club World Cup, Alonso prefers not to repurpose Aurelien Tchouameni from his midfield role to defense. The 4-3-3 setup aims to bring more defensive organization and tactical maturity while allowing players like Vinicius Junior to maintain their attacking roles with added defensive responsibilities. Though Alonso remains open to adjusting formations as player availability improves, the 4-3-3 will serve as the foundational system for the team’s evolution under his leadership. Fans can expect a disciplined, structured approach that balances modern tactics with Real Madrid’s traditional style.