The generational shift at Real Madrid now has a date and a name. After the painful defeat in El Clásico against Barcelona (4-3), which practically sealed LaLiga, the club’s management has decided to make a major change. In the coming hours, the departure of Carlo Ancelotti, the most decorated coach in the club’s history, will be made official to give way to a new era under Xabi Alonso.

The former footballer and current manager said goodbye this weekend to the Bayer Leverkusen fans and dressing room, and his appointment as the new Real Madrid coach is imminent. He is expected to take charge of the team at the Club World Cup, with the mission of building a competitive squad capable of reclaiming ground lost to Barcelona.

A revolution with names and targets

According to journalist Manu Carreño, Xabi Alonso has already shared his tactical vision with the club’s leadership: a shift in system to either 5-3-2 or 4-4-2, aiming for greater defensive solidity and control in midfield. As part of this transformation, he has requested defensive reinforcements, with names like Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Alejandro Grimaldo, and Álvaro Carreras on the radar.

The overhaul will also include significant departures. Rodrygo Goes is expected to leave the club due to a lack of playing time this season and because his profile may not fully fit the new system. Veteran players like Luka Modric and Lucas Vázquez are also set to depart, while the futures of Dani Ceballos and David Alaba remain uncertain.

Meanwhile, Carlo Ancelotti's departure is now confirmed: the Italian manager has been officially presented as the new Brazil national team coach, bringing his second spell at Real Madrid to a close. The club will give him a farewell worthy of his legacy as they now prepare for a new beginning under Xabi Alonso.

A new era of change has begun at Real Madrid, with bold decisions aimed at regaining competitiveness and challenging once again for every title—especially against a Barcelona side that has taken the lead on the domestic stage.