Xabi Alonso was a mastermind footballer, and he is proving to be one as a coach as well. The sense here is that he possesses the mind of a midfielder who was the pivotal dictator in every team he played for, and he has ensured he brings that same mastermind quality into his coaching.
The impact of his tactics was visible from the very first game Real Madrid played under him. The ideas, though still raw, were clearly bearing fruit, and one could only be excited for the upcoming season.
The Club World Cup campaign in the United States offered a peculiar observation that may excite fans: Xabi has found his extension, his own mind on the pitch, in Aurelien Tchouameni.
Aurelien Tchouameni is Xabi Alonso’s extension on the pitch
According to a story from Marca, Tchouameni is playing a fundamental role in Xabi’s setup, in every formation the Spanish manager is experimenting with.
During the Club World Cup, the coach was, on several occasions, seen specifically conversing with the French midfielder on the pitch to implement tactical changes, almost asking him to be the anchor of those changes, to dictate the game the way the manager envisions it. Essentially, turning Tchouameni into his on-field brain.
The manager also told the media repeatedly about Tchouameni’s importance to the team and his role as a tactical decision-maker, however minor those decisions may be.
The best attribute Tchouameni brings is his dual availability, both as a midfielder and a centre-back, and he plays exceptionally well in both positions.
The truth is, this profile of Tchouameni wasn’t hidden before Xabi’s arrival. He had already played a similar pivotal role under Carlo Ancelotti but had suffered a brief dip in form.
The Frenchman is not only a tactical genius for Real Madrid but also for his national team. The defensive and creative contribution he brings to any side he is part of is almost unmatched, at least within the current squad.