Ancelotti Was Right: Xabi Alonso Approves Mario Martín’s Exit to Getafe
Real Madrid continues reshaping its squad as young midfielder departs again
Real Madrid is moving swiftly to finalize its plans for the 2025–26 season. Under new head coach Xabi Alonso, the club has already made four signings and is now focused on balancing the squad through key departures. One of the most notable names heading for the exit door is academy graduate Mario Martín.
The Spanish midfielder will leave the Santiago Bernabéu for a second consecutive season on loan. This time, his destination is Getafe, a move that supports former coach Carlo Ancelotti’s earlier judgment on the player.
A Return to La Liga — But Not With Real Madrid
Last summer, Ancelotti faced criticism for allowing Mario Martín to leave on loan to Real Valladolid after a promising campaign with Real Madrid Castilla. However, despite gaining valuable experience in the second division, Martín’s performances were not enough to secure a place in the first-team squad.
Now, under a new managerial regime led by Xabi Alonso, the same decision has been made. Martín will head to Getafe on loan, with the club securing an option to purchase the player at the end of the season.
Xabi Alonso Focuses on the Squad He Wants
Xabi Alonso has wasted no time since returning from the United States. He has reportedly opted out of taking a vacation and has instead been working continuously to shape his team. While he may be hoping for one more midfield addition, Alonso has made it clear that some current players do not feature in his plans—Mario Martín among them.
The 20-year-old midfielder had multiple offers on the table, including interest from Brazilian side Botafogo, coached by Davide Ancelotti, son of Carlo Ancelotti. However, Martín made it clear he wanted to stay in Spain to continue his development.
A Strategic Move to Getafe
Getafe, under manager José Bordalás, offered Martín a compelling project. The tactical style and competitive environment at the club suit his strengths, making it the most attractive option. While Botafogo made a serious attempt, the player ultimately prioritized La Liga experience and visibility in Spain’s top flight.
Martín is expected to be officially announced as a Getafe player in the coming hours. All parties are aligned, and the deal is fully agreed upon, pending final documentation.
Looking Ahead
For Mario Martín, the loan to Getafe represents a critical step in his journey to establish himself in La Liga. For Real Madrid, it reinforces a clear direction under Xabi Alonso, who appears ready to make decisive calls—even when they validate controversial decisions made by his predecessor.
And for Carlo Ancelotti, it’s a quiet vindication. The Italian’s decision to loan out Martín last season drew criticism at the time but with a second consecutive exit confirmed, it seems his judgment may have been accurate all along.
departs again
Real Madrid is moving swiftly to finalize its plans for the 2025–26 season. Under new head coach Xabi Alonso, the club has already made four signings and is now focused on balancing the squad through key departures. One of the most notable names heading for the exit door is academy graduate Mario Martín.
The Spanish midfielder will leave the Santiago Bernabéu for a second consecutive season on loan. This time, his destination is Getafe, a move that supports former coach Carlo Ancelotti’s earlier judgment on the player.
A Return to La Liga — But Not With Real Madrid
Last summer, Ancelotti faced criticism for allowing Mario Martín to leave on loan to Real Valladolid after a promising campaign with Real Madrid Castilla. However, despite gaining valuable experience in the second division, Martín’s performances were not enough to secure a place in the first-team squad.
Now, under a new managerial regime led by Xabi Alonso, the same decision has been made. Martín will head to Getafe on loan, with the club securing an option to purchase the player at the end of the season.
Xabi Alonso Focuses on the Squad He Wants
Xabi Alonso has wasted no time since returning from the United States. He has reportedly opted out of taking a vacation and has instead been working continuously to shape his team. While he may be hoping for one more midfield addition, Alonso has made it clear that some current players do not feature in his plans Mario Martín among them.
The 20-year-old midfielder had multiple offers on the table, including interest from Brazilian side Botafogo, coached by Davide Ancelotti, son of Carlo Ancelotti. However, Martín made it clear he wanted to stay in Spain to continue his development.
A Strategic Move to Getafe
Getafe, under manager José Bordalás, offered Martín a compelling project. The tactical style and competitive environment at the club suit his strengths, making it the most attractive option. While Botafogo made a serious attempt, the player ultimately prioritized La Liga experience and visibility in Spain’s top flight.
Martín is expected to be officially announced as a Getafe player in the coming hours. All parties are aligned, and the deal is fully agreed upon, pending final documentation.
Looking Ahead
For Mario Martín, the loan to Getafe represents a critical step in his journey to establish himself in La Liga. For Real Madrid, it reinforces a clear direction under Xabi Alonso, who appears ready to make decisive calls even when they validate controversial decisions made by his predecessor.
And for Carlo Ancelotti, it’s a quiet vindication. The Italian’s decision to loan out Martín last season drew criticism at the time but with a second consecutive exit confirmed, it seems his judgment may have been accurate all along.