Earthquake in Valdebebas: Xabi Alonso’s First “Blacklist” Includes Six Players – and the Departure of a Legend Sends Shockwaves
💥 Just weeks into his reign as Real Madrid manager, Xabi Alonso has wasted no time shaking the foundations of the club. The Basque coach has handed president Florentino Pérez his first “blacklist” — a set of six players expected to depart at the end of the season.
Some names, like Jesús Vallejo and Ferland Mendy, were widely anticipated. But the inclusion of Rodrygo has stunned both fans and pundits. Once viewed as a cornerstone of Madrid’s future, the Brazilian is said to be unsettled by his diminished role behind Mbappé, Vinícius, and Bellingham, and could now seek a new adventure elsewhere.
⚠️ Yet the true bombshell comes with the final name: Luka Modrić. The Croatian maestro, who has orchestrated Madrid’s midfield for over a decade, looks set to depart when his contract expires. Many expected a graceful transition into a mentoring or ambassadorial role, but Alonso’s tactical overhaul appears to leave no room for sentiment. The move has triggered a wave of emotion across Spain — fans mourning the end of an era, and experts questioning whether Madrid is sacrificing its soul for progress.
💬 Within minutes, social media ignited with tributes and outrage. Hashtags like #GraciasLuka and #XabiCleanOut trended across Europe. Former teammates and rivals saluted Modrić’s legacy, while analysts debated whether Alonso’s uncompromising approach is genius or recklessness. “This isn’t just a rebuild — it’s a revolution,” one commentator remarked.
Sources close to the dressing room describe an uneasy atmosphere: younger players anxious about their futures, veterans feeling the heat.
🏁 With just four La Liga games left and a Champions League campaign still alive, the timing of Alonso’s purge has added fuel to an already volatile season. Whether his bold gambles deliver glory or regret remains to be seen.
One thing is certain: Valdebebas isn’t just rumbling — it’s erupting.
