As Real Madrid prepares for the 2025/26 season, new head coach Xabi Alonso has already made some strong decisions that show his clear vision for the club. According to a recent report from Real Madrid Confidencial, Alonso has created a new system for choosing free-kick takers, following the arrival of three new signings: Dean Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Franco Mastantuono.
Although Alonso hasn’t spent much time with the full squad yet, his early actions show that he’s serious about building a team based on merit and performance. One of his first big moves is deciding who will take free-kicks for Real Madrid in the new season. And instead of relying on senior players or big names from the past, Alonso has placed his faith in two of the newest and youngest stars.
Alexander-Arnold and Mastantuono to Take Over Free-Kick Duties
As per the report, Trent Alexander-Arnold, who recently joined Real Madrid from Liverpool, will now be in charge of right-footed free-kicks. On the other side, 17-year-old Argentine wonderkid Franco Mastantuono will handle left-footed free-kicks. This shows that Xabi Alonso is confident in their skills and isn’t afraid to trust newcomers with big responsibilities.
This decision also highlights how Alonso is planning to build a new era at the Santiago Bernabéu. Both players have shown excellent technical ability at their former clubs—Alexander-Arnold is known for his dangerous crosses and set-piece goals at Liverpool, while Mastantuono impressed many during his time at River Plate with his calmness and accuracy on the ball.
Confidence in New Signings Reflects Xabi Alonso’s Vision
By giving such important tasks to new players, Alonso is sending a strong message. He believes in talent over reputation. Even though players like Toni Kroos and Luka Modric are no longer at the club—both of whom previously shared free-kick duties—Alonso has found replacements quickly and effectively.
The coach’s actions show that he’s looking ahead and wants to build a fresh and exciting Real Madrid team for the future. This also gives a boost to the newcomers, helping them settle into the team faster and feel more confident in their roles.
A New Era Under Alonso Begins with Clear Roles and Structure
Under Alonso’s leadership, Real Madrid’s 2025 campaign is expected to be very different. His choices already reveal a clear structure, where every player has a defined role. Decisions like this one show that he values performance, form, and dedication over age or past achievements.
Fans will be especially excited to see how Alexander-Arnold and Mastantuono perform in these new roles. With Kroos retired and Modric having left after the Club World Cup, Real Madrid had been missing a specialist free-kick taker. But now, that problem may finally be solved.
Looking Ahead to the 2025/26 Season
As the new season approaches, the excitement around Real Madrid is growing. With young talent, fresh ideas, and a passionate manager at the helm, many believe this could be the beginning of something special at the club.
Trent Alexander-Arnold and Franco Mastantuono will now be two players to watch closely, especially during set-piece situations. And with Alonso at the wheel, fans can expect more bold and smart decisions like this in the near future.
