Real Madrid has gone through a rather undesired year and the results haven't pleased the fans or the board at all. Florentino Pérez has had to make important decisions that have sparked a lot of discussion. Carlo stepped aside so Xabi Alonso could arrive, who has brought excitement back to the capital once again.
Xabi Alonso arrived at Real Madrid a few weeks ago and there was quickly a noticeable change in the squad. Some players who had been considered untouchable have remained on the bench. Now, the coach has drafted the next Vitinha for today's match.
Xabi Alonso and his plan for the midfield
Xabi Alonso has had to adapt quickly to his new team and try to close out a respectable Club World Cup. Unfortunately for him, he didn't achieve it and a section of the fans showed their dissatisfaction with his performance. Even so, the coach clarified that this was only the end of the 24-25 season, and that from that moment on, the good part was just beginning.
Real Madrid haven't achieved the goals set for this year and the main problem has been the lack of teamwork. Kroos's departure left a huge void, which still hasn't been filled. The German stepped aside, but the white squad wasn't prepared for his exit.
In addition to the problems connecting the offense and the defense, Real Madrid's forward line hasn't clicked as expected. Interestingly, a footballer has emerged from the academy who closely resembles Vitinha, one of the best in the world in his position. Faced with this situation, Xabi Alonso has decided that he will be part of today's squad.
Xabi Alonso and the new Vitinha
The player we're talking about is Thiago Pitarch, who finished the season strongly in Real Madrid's youth teams. Arbeloa promoted him from Juvenil B to A and he quickly earned a spot in the starting eleven. Thanks to his strong finish to the season, the midfielder has done preseason with the reserve team.
Additionally, he has now been rewarded with a draft to the first team. It's likely that we'll see Thiago Pitarch on the field at some point during the match today. We'll have to follow everything closely so we don't miss any updates.