Real Madrid have had a rollercoaster first half of the 2025/26 season. A lot has changed in the team this campaign, with players like Dean Huijsen, Álvaro Carreras, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Franc Mastantuono joining the club. Xabi Alonso has also been appointed as the new manager to lead the team forward.
However, the glaring issue that has haunted the Los Blancos in recent times still isn’t solved. As many fans would have already guessed, we’re talking about a player who could bring control to the midfield.
Don’t get us wrong, Real Madrid have a lot of quality individuals in the middle of the park, but none of them has been able to step up and fill the void left by Toni Kroos.
The German maestro decided to hang up his boots in 2024 after winning his sixth Champions League. He was the orchestrator for Madrid and brought unmatched control with his unique abilities, which have been missing in the team since his retirement.
Nevertheless, Real Madrid have been trying to find a replacement for Kroos for quite some time now, and it looks like they could finally succeed this year.
2026 could be the year Real Madrid finally replace Toni Kroos
According to Diario AS (via Madrid Zone), Kees Smit has emerged as a top midfield candidate for Madrid. Los Blancos believe they need a player who can “generate football” in midfield. Smit reportedly fits the profile perfectly due to his age and quality.
The Dutch international has certainly caught the eye with his recent performances. He has appeared in 27 matches this season, scoring two goals and providing five assists.
At just 19 years old, Smit still has a lot to learn and develop further. That said, judging by his current performances, he has the potential to become one of the best players in his position moving forward.
Unsurprisingly, Madrid aren’t the only club interested in the Dutch youngster, with Manchester United, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich among others also keeping an eye on the player.
Notably, the Bernabeu's recruitment team have been focusing on bringing in young players, shifting away from their previous approach of signing established stars. While this strategy has been successful so far, it hasn’t been without its flaws. Therefore, Los Blancos will have to make sure that Smit fits the requirements they are looking for.
A quality midfielder will solve a lot of problems for Real Madrid. Now, will that individual be Smit or someone a bit more proven? That remains to be seen.
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