Real Madrid’s season opener against Osasuna is set for Tuesday and I am beyond excited to see how Xabi Alonso’s team works. This match could be the perfect chance to make a statement, and I believe Xabi will do just that.
Glimpses of his ideas were visible in the friendly against WSG Tirol. The added fluidity and improved control over possession stood out in contrast to last season, and many of those positives can be replicated against Osasuna.
For me, winning La Liga this season is a must. The new signings will be crucial in ensuring that the 37th league title is brought back to Santiago Bernabeu. Xabi now has a younger and fresher squad at his disposal, and these players have a clear task, to win it all.
A new manager, new players, and the best chance to go for everything. That mission starts at home by targeting the league. Here are four Real Madrid players most likely to make their La Liga debuts on Tuesday.
Trent Alexander-Arnold
The Englishman was signed after a long diplomatic battle with Liverpool, who finally accepted a sizeable fee to send Trent a month early. For what Madrid spent, I think this will prove to be a generational signing.
Trent is already a proven star, a multiple-time Premier League winner, and one of the best playmakers in world football. His creativity is second to none and he will help Madrid produce those goals they sometimes struggle to find.
He is heavily favored to start at right back against Osasuna. Even if not from the beginning, he is certain to get minutes.
Dean Huijsen
Another top signing who is already proving his worth. Fans call him the Toni Kroos of defenders and the numbers justify it. Huijsen is a solid defender with exceptional passing ability, so much so that he has already cemented his place as an undisputed starter.
There is little doubt Xabi will include him in his starting XI. This debut is one to keep an eye on.
Alvaro Carreras
Another signing that Madrid fought hard to secure. They aimed to bring Carreras in before the Club World Cup, but Benfica are notoriously difficult negotiators.
Now Carreras wears white and looks set to take the field on Tuesday. The left-back position needed strengthening, and while Fran Garcia impressed during the Club World Cup, Carreras appears to have the edge to start under Alonso.
Franco Mastantuono
Reports suggest Mastantuono impressed Xabi and his staff so much in his very first training session that he has already guaranteed himself minutes on Tuesday.
He may not start, with Rodrygo likely to get the nod on the right wing, but Mastantuono is expected to be introduced later in the game.