The first clash between Alonso and Real Madrid's management

Spanish newspaper Defensa Central reported that Real Madrid's management rejected the first request made by the expected coach to lead the team next season, Xabi Alonso. According to the newspaper, Alonso, the current coach of Bayer Leverkusen, who is close to signing with the royal club, expressed during his first contact with the management his desire to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi during the next summer transfer window. Alonso believes Zubimendi would be a strong addition to Real Madrid's midfield, but he faces a contract with Real Sociedad that extends until 2027 and includes a release clause of 60 million euros. Despite the Spanish coach's desire, Real Madrid's management informed him that they do not intend to sign a player in the "6" position next summer, given the presence of the duo Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni, who enjoy the confidence of the management and the current technical staff. For his part, reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Zubimendi is close to moving to the English club Arsenal, starting next season.