Xabi Alonso Becomes Real Madrid Coach as Brahim Díaz Hopes for Bigger Role

Real Madrid have named Xabi Alonso as their new head coach. The former midfielder signed a three-year deal and will take over from Carlo Ancelotti. Alonso is set to begin his duties on Monday at the club’s training base in Madrid. His first big challenge will be the FIFA Club World Cup next month.

Alonso returns to Real Madrid after a very successful time with Bayer Leverkusen. In the 2023–24 season, he led the German side to their first-ever Bundesliga title. He also won the domestic cup, achieving a rare double in German football. His return to Spain is seen as a fresh start not just for the team but also for players looking to make their mark.

One player who may benefit from Alonso’s arrival is Brahim Díaz. The 25-year-old Moroccan international had a tough season under Ancelotti. Despite playing in 51 matches, most of his minutes came from the bench. He scored six goals and gave seven assists, but often struggled to find a consistent role in the team.

Díaz is a skillful attacking player who can play both as a winger and a central midfielder. However, with strong competition from stars like Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham, he had limited chances. Many fans and experts believe that with Alonso’s new tactics and fresh approach, Díaz might get more time on the pitch.

Xabi Alonso is known for helping young players develop. At Bayer Leverkusen, he worked with several rising stars and gave them space to grow. He often used modern systems like the 3-4-3 or 4-2-3-1 that allow creative players to shine. If he brings the same ideas to Madrid, Díaz and others who were on the sidelines could find new opportunities.

Alonso understands Real Madrid very well. He played for the club between 2009 and 2014 and won major trophies, including La Liga and the Champions League. His deep knowledge of the team’s culture and expectations could help him adapt quickly. The club believes he is the right person to lead them into a new era, combining experience with a focus on the future.

Carlo Ancelotti, who is leaving to manage the Brazil national team, had a successful run with Real Madrid. But some players did not get regular playing time under his leadership. Alonso’s arrival may change that. Real Madrid’s management has shown a clear interest in building a younger squad. They have already signed top talents like Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Arda Güler.

Brahim Díaz had earlier proved himself during his time at AC Milan. He helped the Italian club win the Serie A title and gained valuable experience in top-level matches. Since returning to Madrid, he has been waiting for a bigger role. With Alonso now in charge, he may finally get that chance.

Real Madrid will start their pre-season in early July. That will give Alonso time to study his squad and try out different player combinations. The FIFA Club World Cup will follow soon after, offering an early test for the new coach. Fans are eager to see how he builds the team and what changes he will make.

The coming months are important for both Alonso and the players. A fresh voice in the dressing room can bring new energy and ideas. For Díaz, this may be the moment he has been waiting for. He will need to prove himself in training and take every chance he gets.