Despite the disappointment of another Clasico defeat, Real Madrid fans finally have a reason to look ahead with optimism.
This is because, according to MARCA, the club has taken a decisive step towards its future by confirming that Xabi Alonso will take charge of the team at the FIFA Club World Cup. There will be no interim solution. No waiting. The new project begins now.
The decision, reportedly made during an internal meeting last week, signals a shift in tone and urgency from Florentino Perez and his board.
Rather than having Alonso wait on the sidelines while an interim coach like Santiago Solari leads the squad in a crucial tournament, the club chose to thrust the former midfield maestro directly into the action.
The message from the board was crystal clear: "This starts at the World Cup."
The Club World Cup, taking place in the summer on American soil, is seen as a vital tournament by the Madrid hierarchy.
It is not just another trophy to win, it is an opportunity to reassert Real Madrid’s authority ahead of a new era.
Perez, for that matter, understands that the momentum of this new cycle begins with the way it is introduced, and there’s no better platform than a high-profile competition where Madrid are expected to perform.
Alonso’s appointment will mean there is no transitional period between Carlo Ancelotti’s departure and the start of the new regime.
The Italian manager will head straight to take charge of Br azil, perhaps the most demanding national team job in the world, while Alonso steps into one of the most scrutinised roles in club football.
It is a bold decision, and not without its challenges. Alonso will be expected to make tactical and selection decisions in a competitive environment almost immediately.
But Real Madrid are betting on his ability to adapt quickly, something he has already shown at Bayer Leverkusen, where he transformed the German club into a title-winning side playing exciting, modern football.