Real Madrid's win over Osasuna was nothing out of the ordinary for the team. They faced 11 players who, for a lot of the game, wanted to sit back and not allow any space for the home side.
Real Madrid eventually prevailed through a goal from Kylian Mbappe, but it was not all smooth sailing, particularly in the attack.
In the defense, however, it was much better. Real Madrid defended really well, and did not give Osasuna a sniff of Thibaut Courtois' goal even when they did go forward.
Dean Huijsen and Eder Militao were their centre-backs on the night, and they played admirably.
No Real Madrid player is guaranteed a starting spot anymore
In the press conference, Xabi Alonso was asked about whether that is the partnership the coach will go for in most games this season, and he gave an answer that wouldn't just stand out to the defenders - it actually felt like a warning to everyone at the club.
He said: “Whoever deserves to play will play. Nobody is guaranteed a spot in the XI, but of course, I’m very happy with Huijsen and Militao. And Carvajal, who’s already there, is very important on the pitch and in terms of morale.”
That clearly sends out a sign. A signal. Every player, and I am guessing this includes the superstars, will need to show out every single game to be able to continue starting for the first team.
They need to be at their best both defensively and going forward, and only then they will retain their spot.
This is different to how it used to be under Carlo Ancelotti as he used to show his trust in the players who were out of form by giving them minutes to increase confidence.
Now, there is much more at stake for those players, and it remains to be seen what happens to them if they are in a bad run of games.
It also depends on the gme state. Maybe Alonso will bring a player like Dani Carvajal on in some games instead of starting him, not because he isn't world class, but because he can potentially defend better when there is more defending to do.
So, yes, it goes both ways. Either way you look at it, though, Real Madrid players simply need to do their best in every game.