Regretful, Xabi Alonso begs to return to Bernabéu: 'I didn't know he was that good'

Real Madrid has one of the most complete forward lines in the world. Xabi Alonso can choose from established stars like Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, or Rodrygo, as well as young talents like Mastantuono, Gonzalo García, and Endrick.

This guarantees goals and entertainment, but it has also forced the coach to make difficult decisions regarding those left out.

Chema Andrés, a player left out by Xabi Alonso

Among those sacrificed is a name that is starting to attract attention in Europe today: Chema Andrés.

The Spanish midfielder left Bernabéu last summer and, just a few months later, is already showing in the Bundesliga that his departure doesn't have to be final.

Immediate impact in Germany

Stuttgart made a strong bet on him and haven't been wrong. Since his arrival, he has adapted with surprising speed, to the point of becoming a key piece for Sebastian Hoeneß.

His ability to cover ground, recover balls, and, at the same time, appear in attack has given him unexpected prominence.

The most outstanding moment so far came against Borussia Mönchengladbach, when he scored the goal that gave his team the victory with a header.

A goal that symbolizes his growing influence, providing defensive solidity and sound judgment in building from the back while remaining decisive in the box.

The buyback clause keeps the link alive

Chema Andrés signed a contract with Stuttgart until 2030, but Real Madrid made sure not to lose him completely.

The agreement includes a buyback clause of €13.5 million and also a percentage of a future sale.

This strategy is very reminiscent of the "Carvajal route": growing in Germany to return to Bernabéu with more experience and authority.

The white club is closely following his progress and doesn't rule out exercising that option if the midfielder's level is kept.

The formula allows the risk to be minimal, while guaranteeing the player quality minutes in a competitive context.

"I didn't know he was that good"

In this regard, Xabi Alonso reportedly admitted to his staff his mistake in leaving him out: "I didn't know he was that good." This makes it clear that Real Madrid keeps watching him.

Thus, the challenge for Chema Andrés will be to keep his consistency in a league as demanding as the German one. If he succeeds, his buyback price will become a very valuable asset for Real Madrid.

Otherwise, Stuttgart or other clubs could take advantage of the opportunity to keep a footballer with clear potential.

For now, the environment in Germany offers him trust and space to grow without the pressure he would've had in Madrid.

However, it's clear that, with his talent and room for improvement, sooner or later he'll knock on Bernabéu's door again.

Therefore, Chema Andrés's future is written on two fronts: the present is in Stuttgart, but the horizon could once again be white.