Xabi Alonso’s Bold Shuffle: Real Madrid’s Makeshift Defense Ahead of Alavés Showdown
14 December 2025
Injury Crisis Pushes Xabi Alonso to an Unconventional Madrid XI
Xabi Alonso faces a severe injury crisis as Real Madrid prepare to host Deportivo Alavés in La Liga on Sunday.
With full-backs out, young players are eyed as potential starters, notably Víctor Valdepenas, who could make his Madrid debut.
With several defensive options sidelined due to injuries and suspensions, Alonso is forced into unconventional choices.
Eduardo Camavinga remains sidelined in the medical ward, after previously filling in at left-back under Carlo Ancelotti.
Lineup Details and Key Changes for the Alavés Clash
The defense restructures again, with Fede Valverde at right-back and Asensio in central defense, while the partner in central defense remains uncertain between Antonio Rüdiger or Hussein, both dealing with fitness issues.
In midfield, Kamavinga's absence opens competition for the second midfield slot alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni, with Dani Ceballos favored to start.
In attack, Kylian Mbappé's return is the biggest change, likely to form a duo with Vinícius Júnior, at the expense of Gonzalo García.
The predicted Real Madrid XI against Alavés is: Courtois, Valdepenas, Asensio, (Rüdiger or Hussein), Valverde, Rodrygo, Tchouaméni, Ceballos, Jude Bellingham, Mbappé and Vinícius.
Juan Martínez from the youth ranks is waiting for his chance off the bench.
Kick-off is scheduled for 21:00 local time on December 14, 2025, as Madrid eye a win to bounce back from a tough schedule.
Punchline 1: If Madrid's defense keeps stacking injuries, they'll need a magician to conjure a starter from the treatment room.
Punchline 2: Alonso's lineup feels like a messy puzzle—guess the pieces before kickoff, then brace for the scoreboard's punchline.
