Confirmed, he is the new Fede Valverde, Xabi Alonso is counting on him for 2026

Xabi Alonso is delighted with Fede Valverde and acknowledged it as soon as he arrived at Real Madrid during the Club World Cup. At that moment, the coach stated that having him made his life much easier and made his complete trust clear. Since then, the relationship between the two has remained solid despite the rumors that have surrounded the white club.

Many accused Valverde of not wanting to play as a full-back, but Xabi Alonso knew perfectly well that the Uruguayan wouldn't object if he had to play in that position. The footballer has played numerous matches as a wing-back and, far from showing discontent, has been one of the best at Real Madrid. His physical power, stamina, and tactical intelligence have allowed him to perform at the highest level even in matches as demanding as El Clásico.

Fede Valverde, soul of Real Madrid

Fede Valverde has become the soul of Real Madrid and one of the most respected captains in the locker room. He is a beloved, admired player and is considered an example of commitment by the group. His ability to adapt to different positions and his constant dedication have made him indispensable for Xabi Alonso.

The coach has even joked in private that he'd like to be able to clone him. It's no wonder: Fede Valverde can do it all, from breaking lines with power to keeping the team defensively solid. In this context, Alonso has already identified who could be his natural replacement in the coming years: Thiago Pitarch.

Thiago Pitarch, the alternative for the future

Thiago Pitarch has already trained under Xabi Alonso and is starting to become a regular presence in the first team's routines. He himself has acknowledged in interviews that he deeply admires Fede Valverde and sees similarities in their play style. That ambition and self-confidence have sparked the coaching staff's interest, and they are keeping a close eye on him.

His latest great performance came this very week, when he scored a stunning goal against Southampton in the Premier League International Cup. The goal, an individual action that combined power and precision, helped strengthen his case to make the definitive leap. Xabi Alonso, after that match, is certain that he is counting on him for the 2026 season.

Real Madrid is facing a stage in which the balance between experience and youth will be key to keeping their hegemony. Fede Valverde will remain the engine of the team, but Thiago Pitarch emerges as the big medium-term bet. His mixed profile, between the Uruguayan's intensity and the creativity of a modern midfielder, fits perfectly with the coach's philosophy.