Xabi Alonso has had enough time to get to know the Real Madrid squad at his disposal.
With six matches in the FIFA Club World Cup and three more in La Liga, the new manager has already laid down a solid foundation, identifying several untouchable players in his core lineup.
Yet, four positions remain open to fierce competition, setting up fascinating internal battles that could define Madrid’s season.
The right-back and centre-back positions are currently the focus of Alonso’s toughest choices.
Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold are both vying for the right-back slot, while Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger are contesting a starting place at the heart of defence.
For now, Militao seems to have the edge over Rudiger. The Br azilian has made a convincing case with standout performances, most recently against Mallorca.
He won six of his nine duels and finished third in tackles and aerial duels won. What sets him apart, however, is his composure in possession.
Militao led both teams in passing accuracy, completing 44 of his 47 passes with a remarkable 94% success rate.
Meanwhile, the Carvajal vs. Trent battle is proving equally intriguing. Carvajal has returned from injury in superb form and currently looks like Alonso’s first choice.
His leadership and defensive discipline are giving him the edge over the Englishman, who was expected to push the veteran hard but has instead fallen behind in the pecking order.
Yet, with Carvajal not getting younger, Alonso knows he must soon make a definitive decision about whether to prioritise experience or build for the long term with Trent.
If the defence brings headaches, the forward line is not far behind.
Franco Mastantuono and Brahim Diaz are battling for the right-wing role, while the left side has turned into a surprising duel between Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo.
Few expected the two Br azilians to be pitted against each other, but Rodrygo has made it clear he wants to play on the left, his natural side.
That means Alonso faces the challenge of managing direct competition between two of Br azil’s biggest stars.
Vinicius holds the initial advantage thanks to his status as one of Madrid’s leading figures, but Alonso has already signalled that reputation alone will not guarantee a starting place.