Ranking Real Madrid’s top 5 defensive midfielders of all-time

4. Xabi Alonso (2009-2014)

Xabi Alonso is without a doubt one of Real Madrid’s best defensive midfielders. He was a role model for many and a one-of-a-kind athlete. There have been few, if any, midfielders like him, and seeing him play was a rare treat.

The Spaniard was a prominent player in every team he played for, but it was with Real Madrid that he reached the pinnacle of his career. He was a playmaker, a defender, and everything you could want from three midfielders in one.

After a great season in the Premier League with Liverpool, Real Madrid came knocking in 2009, and the player developed into a valuable asset throughout his time in Spain. The most desired and historic La Decima arrived with Alonso in charge of defensive responsibilities from midfield, despite the fact that the suspended player missed the final.

The reliability and consistency Alonso provided to an attacking side was second to none, in fact, the player was second to none. The Basque-born midfielder won several laurels at the club and was indeed special.

At Real Madrid, Alonso was at the height of his career, and at an age when many would consider retiring, the player did the inconceivable, winning trophies for both the club and Spain. He was a dynamic player who led by example and had the mindset and determination to protect the ball no matter what.

Alonso led Real Madrid through one of its most prosperous eras, and some of the credit for it may be attributed to the vision and mastery that this icon provided.