Real Madrid is in a period of transition that promises to shake the club’s foundations. After a difficult season, marked by the Champions League quarter-final exit to Arsenal, Carlo Ancelotti’s continued presence hangs in the balance. Rumors about his departure have gained traction, and the name of Xabi Alonso, current Bayer Leverkusen manager, is being strongly suggested as the favorite to take over the reins in the summer of 2025. But what has truly set off alarm bells among Real Madrid fans is the news that, if he arrives at the Santiago Bernabéu, Alonso has a clear plan: to repatriate two gems from the youth academy, Miguel Gutiérrez and Nico Paz, to revitalize the team.

A necessary change of course

Carlo Ancelotti’s second spell at Real Madrid has been full of success, with two Champions League titles and one La Liga title, among other titles. However, the 2024-2025 campaign has exposed cracks in the project. A lack of consistency, problems replacing Toni Kroos, and an inability to dominate matches have raised doubts among the board led by Florentino Pérez. According to sources close to the club, Ancelotti could be living out his final months at Chamartín, with a contract that runs until 2026 but with no guarantee of continuity.

In this context, Xabi Alonso emerges as the ideal candidate. His success at Bayer Leverkusen, where he won the 2023-2024 Bundesliga, the German Cup, and the German Super Cup, has made him one of the most sought-after coaches in Europe. His style of play, which combines directness, possession, and high pressing, fits with Real Madrid’s philosophy. Furthermore, his past as a Real Madrid player and his deep knowledge of the club make him a figure that excites the fans.

The return of the quarry jewels

If Alonso lands at the Bernabéu, his priority will be to strengthen the squad with young talent and a hunger for glory. According to recent reports, the Basque coach is targeting two former Real Madrid players: Miguel Gutiérrez and Nico Paz, both with buy-out clauses that facilitate their return.

Miguel Gutiérrez: The full-back of the future

Miguel Gutiérrez, currently with Girona, has proven to be one of the best left-backs in LaLiga. With a €9 million buy-out clause (which increases by €1 million per season), his return is a viable deal for Real Madrid. At 23, Gutiérrez brings defensive balance, offensive prowess, and technical quality that make him ideal for Alonso’s system. The inconsistency of Ferland Mendy and Fran García in the position has led the board to reconsider their commitment to the youth player, who already showed glimpses of his potential during his time with the first team.

However, Alonso has also shown interest in Benfica full-back Álvaro Carreras, suggesting he is determined to strengthen that position with a young, dynamic player, regardless of who is chosen.

Nico Paz: Kroos’s heir

On the other hand, Nico Paz, transferred to Como in Italy for €6 million, is another of Alonso’s bets. With an €8 million buyout clause, the 20-year-old Spanish-Argentine midfielder has shone in Serie A, showing vision, creativity, and ability to attack. His departure from Real Madrid was marked by frustration at the limited opportunities under Ancelotti, but his development in Italy has convinced the board that he can be a key player in the future.

Alonso sees Paz as a generational replacement for the midfield, especially following Kroos’ retirement. His ability to manage the tempo of the match and his versatility make him an ideal fit for Real Madrid’s new project.

An ambitious project

The possible arrival of Xabi Alonso not only implies a change on the bench, but a complete overhaul of the team. In addition to Gutiérrez and Paz, other names are being discussed, such as Florian Wirtz, Alonso’s pupil at Leverkusen, whose signing could be around €100 million. This move would reflect the club’s ambition to combine experience and youth to once again dominate Europe.

On social media, fans are already speculating about what Alonso’s lineup could be. Some users on X have suggested the departure of Lucas Vázquez, David Alaba, and Luka Modrić to make way for a more youthful squad, with Gutiérrez at left back and Paz as a replacement in midfield.

Alonso’s challenge

Taking over at Real Madrid will not be an easy task. The pressure to win titles, managing a star-studded dressing room, and the expectations of the fans are all challenges Alonso will have to face. However, his record at Leverkusen shows he’s up for the challenge. His ability to develop young players and his tactical vision could restore the spark Real Madrid has lacked this season.

The summer of 2025 is shaping up to be a turning point for Real Madrid. With Xabi Alonso at the helm and the return of talents like Miguel Gutiérrez and Nico Paz, Real Madrid could be witnessing the beginning of a new golden era. Fans, meanwhile, eagerly await the return of a prodigal son who promises to return the team to the top of world football.