According to Marca, Xabi Alonso identified a key structural flaw in Real Madrid’s squad as early as late May. During his first planning meeting with club executives, the coach made it clear that the team lacked a true playmaker capable of controlling tempo, organizing play, and bringing clarity in possession.

Alonso specifically requested a creative midfield organiser and even put forward the name of Martín Zubimendi, despite the player already having a verbal agreement with Arsenal. At the time, the club hierarchy dismissed the concern, arguing that the midfield was already well covered with Jude Bellingham, Camavinga, Tchouaméni, Valverde, Güler, and Ceballos.

Seven months later, the situation has changed. Internally, Real Madrid now acknowledge that the problem was never about numbers, but about profile. The squad lacks a genuine game-changing playmaker who can consistently dictate matches.

While Bellingham has shown flashes of that role, his performances have been irregular, and his shoulder injury is no longer viewed as the main explanation. After missing out on Zubimendi and prioritizing heavy investment in other areas, the club has returned to the market.

Vitinha is considered unattainable, while Nico Paz, Kees Smit, and Adam Wharton are currently viewed as long-term solutions rather than immediate fixes.

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