The arrival of a new manager often signals the beginning of a new philosophy and the implementation of ideas that are novel to the club.
Needless to say, it also brings with it changes in the hierarchy of players and the positions prioritised.
Xabi Alonso’s arrival at Madrid has done the same as Los Blancos have shifted from a 4-4-2 formation to one with the fullbacks pressing higher and acting like virtual wingbacks.
Unsurprisingly, the system also requires the pivot to drop deeper as a third centre-back, something that has rejuvenated Aurelien Tchouameni’s role.
As relayed by AS in a recent report, the Frenchman is one of the players benefited most by Alonso’s arrival and his situation has seen a dramatic turnaround in recent weeks.
While Tchouameni was always important under Carlo Ancelotti, his limelight was slowly fading away and he was increasingly seen as a liability during parts of last season.
His situation hit an all-time low around eight months ago when he hit his worst patch and was even booed by the Santiago Bernabeu.
Now, however, he is one of the first names on Alonso’s team list and a bona fide starter in the defensive midfield.
He is one of the fundamental pillars of the new manager’s system as the lone defensive midfielder who also acts like an able third centre-back.
The fact that he is the only player in the squad who is a natural fit in the position makes him an undisputed part of the XI and his significance is only expected to grow as the months roll by.
After all, Real Madrid’s complete defensive security on transitions rests on his shoulders.
The 25-year-old played all six of Real Madrid’s games in the recent FIFA Club World Cup and averaged 89 minutes per game – a number that justifies his importance in the dynamics.
Needless to say, his growth will be an interesting trajectory to follow next season.