According to reports, starting a project at a top-tier club is always challenging, but when it comes to Real Madrid, the difficulty reaches another level. This challenge becomes even greater when the transfer market doesn’t go as the coach desires. This is exactly what might happen to Xabi Alonso, even before he officially begins his tenure.

Two key players at the top of Real Madrid’s wishlist, approved by Xabi, have significantly distanced themselves from the Bernabéu: Florian Wirtz appears to be heading to Munich, and Martin Zubimendi has set his sights on London and Arsenal.

Neither transfer has been finalized yet, but Real Madrid is clearly in a weak position. Bayern Munich and Arsenal are leading the race for both players. This won’t be a small blow for Real. Wirtz, the 22-year-old talent who has been a primary target for Madrid’s sporting directors for over a year, is a player who could guarantee a decade of brilliance. He hasn’t yet joined a European giant that would make him unattainable.

This transfer was being carefully and quietly negotiated, but Bayern was always lurking. They know Wirtz well—he scored his first goal against Bayern at 17, what an introduction! Wirtz is now ready to fly. He hinted at this a few days ago, and Bild revealed on Friday that not only have initial talks between Bayern and Wirtz begun, but a significant agreement is on the horizon: a five-year contract with an annual salary of €20-25 million and a key role for Musiala, Wirtz’s close friend, in the deal. The agreement is so serious that it will either be finalized this summer or in 2026 if the two German clubs don’t reach a deal.

On the other hand, the situation with Zubimendi and Arsenal is similar. The midfielder, a key target for both Real and Arsenal, has a €60 million release clause, affordable for both clubs. It’s reported that Zubimendi has reached a verbal agreement with Arsenal.

Despite Xabi Alonso’s strong influence—he knows Zubimendi well, having monitored him for a year at Real Sociedad B in the 2019-20 season (third division)—Arsenal has worked hard to secure the player.

Since Zubimendi rejected Liverpool’s offer last summer, Arteta seized the opportunity, convincing him by showcasing the successful example of Mikel Merino, who had a similar situation and adapted well at Arsenal, London, and the Premier League.

If Real Madrid fails to change these two situations, they’ll have to turn to Plan C to find a midfielder who can fill the huge sporting and emotional void left by Toni Kroos—a loss deeply felt by the team. A player who can lead the midfield, and who better than Xabi Alonso to understand this crucial role?