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Real Madrid’s ambitious summer transfer window brought several high-profile reinforcements, including the signings of Huijsen, Carreras, Mastantuono, and Trent Alexander-Arnold. While most have adapted quickly to Xabi Alonso’s system, the English full-back is facing a much more difficult start to life in La Liga.

A Difficult Adaptation

Alexander-Arnold’s transition from Liverpool to Madrid has been far from seamless. Known for his offensive creativity in the Premier League, he is now tasked with meeting Alonso’s demands for greater defensive solidity — an area where he continues to struggle. The adjustment has highlighted the difference between his natural playing style and the tactical responsibilities expected in Spain.

Carvajal’s Return Shifts the Debate

To complicate matters further, Dani Carvajal has returned from injury with the consistency and reliability that have defined his career. His strong performances have reignited debate about the right-back position, with many in Madrid questioning whether Alexander-Arnold can secure a starting role.

Spanish outlet Cadena SER sounded the alarm, warning that if the Englishman does not accelerate his adaptation, “Carvajal will eat him alive.” Former Madrid player and analyst Álvaro Benito echoed that sentiment: “Carvajal is really something. If Trent doesn’t get in shape within a month, he’ll surpass him.”

The Weight of Expectations

The contrast with Madrid’s other summer signings only adds pressure. Huijsen, Carreras, and Mastantuono have quickly found their place within the squad, while Alexander-Arnold — one of the club’s most expensive arrivals — has yet to justify his price tag. With one of the highest salaries in the team, expectations are heavy, and Xabi Alonso has made it clear that reputation alone will not secure playing time.

Carvajal: The Relentless Competitor

For over a decade, Carvajal has been one of Europe’s most reliable right-backs, combining defensive discipline with a knack for stepping up in crucial moments. Despite recurring fitness issues in recent years, his commitment and professionalism remain unquestioned. His latest return has only strengthened his claim to the position, making him a formidable rival for Alexander-Arnold.

A Challenge for Xabi Alonso

The situation leaves Alonso with a delicate balancing act. On one side, Real Madrid’s heavy investment in Alexander-Arnold demands results and long-term impact. On the other, Carvajal remains a proven asset for high-pressure matches and continues to command trust in the dressing room.

For now, the feeling around Valdebebas is clear: Carvajal is ahead in the competition. If Alexander-Arnold cannot quickly raise his level, he risks being overshadowed by a player who refuses to give up his place without a fight.

Xabi Alonso has wasted no time in stamping his authority at Real Madrid. The new head coach has made it clear from the very start: reputation and talent alone are not enough to guarantee minutes. For Alonso, attitude and commitment are non-negotiable, and those who fall short will be left behind.

Dani Ceballos, the Example

The clearest case of Alonso’s uncompromising philosophy is Dani Ceballos. Once considered a player who could earn a place through his energy and drive in training, the Andalusian midfielder now finds himself sidelined. Not because of a lack of ability, but due to what Alonso sees as a lack of focus and dedication.

Ceballos has been increasingly excluded from matchday plans, with his minutes reduced drastically in recent competitions. The coach’s stance is blunt: “I don’t want to see him in the team” if his commitment does not match the required standard. Alonso interprets the player’s mindset as drifting toward an exit, rather than fighting for his place at the Bernabéu.

Seen as a Betrayal

For Alonso, such an attitude borders on betrayal. In a squad stacked with world-class talent, he believes he cannot afford to carry players who are not fully invested in the project. The message to the locker room is firm: anyone who is not 100% committed will not be part of his Real Madrid.

Dreams of Returning to Betis

Meanwhile, Ceballos has made no secret of his desire to return to Real Betis, the club where he feels most at home. However, the financial aspect complicates matters. Betis cannot currently meet Madrid’s valuation, leaving the midfielder stuck in limbo. Despite appeals for help to facilitate his exit, Florentino Pérez is unwilling to sanction a cut-price deal.

An Uncertain Future

With the transfer window still open, surprises are possible. But if Ceballos remains, his role will be strictly marginal under Alonso’s regime. The Basque coach has been unequivocal: talent is not enough — discipline, will, and total dedication are mandatory.

Alonso’s stance also serves as a message to Pérez. No player, regardless of their name or status, is untouchable. In this new era at Real Madrid, the rules are simple: only those who give everything will play.