The sting of defeat at Anfield still fresh, Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has reportedly identified a core weakness within his squad: the midfield. A narrow 1-0 loss to Liverpool, sealed by an Alexis Mac Allister goal, exposed a need for greater control and dynamism in the heart of the pitch.
Alonso’s gaze has turned towards the Premier League, specifically to Liverpool and Chelsea, as he compiles a list of potential reinforcements. The Argentine Mac Allister, who orchestrated much of Liverpool’s success in that Champions League clash, now features prominently on that list.
Madrid had previously pursued Martin Zubimendi, but his move to Arsenal thwarted those plans. Now, Alonso’s focus has sharpened, zeroing in on Mac Allister, alongside Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez, Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, and Paris Saint-Germain’s Vitinha.
Prying Mac Allister away from Liverpool will be a monumental task. The 26-year-old has quickly become integral to the Reds’ system, and losing him would represent another significant blow following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s summer departure.
Alonso believes Mac Allister possesses the precise qualities his midfield currently lacks – a commanding presence capable of dictating tempo and controlling the flow of play. He envisions the Argentine as the fulcrum around which his midfield can operate.
However, Mac Allister isn’t the only option. Fernandez, Wharton, and Vitinha each offer unique strengths. Data analysis suggests Vitinha excels in creativity and passing, while Mac Allister demonstrates superior defensive capabilities.
While Vitinha’s skillset is undeniably impressive, his status as a key player for PSG presents a significant obstacle. Wharton, eager for a step up from Crystal Palace, might prove a more attainable target, but lacks the proven pedigree of his counterparts.
Ultimately, Mac Allister’s blend of creative vision and defensive solidity could make him the ideal all-rounder for Alonso’s Real Madrid. The pursuit, however, promises to be a fierce and complex battle, testing the club’s resolve and financial power.
