Monday, June 9, was Xabi Alonso’s first day at Real Madrid, and he asserted his authority by arriving at the club’s facilities an impressive three hours earlier than the schedule, reports Sergio

Carlo Ancelotti’s exit to manage the Brazil national team has led to the fellow Italians who assisted him at the Bernabeu leaving too. That was a group that led Madrid to win two Champions League titles after Ancelotti’s return for a second spell as coach in 2021, so replacing them will be a tough task.

Real Madrid have a clear plan this summer as they look to strengthen their squad in key areas as they head into a new era under Xabi Alonso. Plenty has already changed in the Spanish capital - with some vital signings already in place - with others progressing in the background.

According to a recent update from Fichajes, new Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has already begun to shape the squad in his image, and his first moves are nothing short of bold. Just days into the

Real Madrid have reportedly reached a final agreement over the signing of Alvaro Carreras with Benfica and will pay the full release clause.