Real Madrid Dominates Leganés in Training Match Debut for Xabi Alonso

Valdebebas, Spain – Real Madrid defeated Leganés 4-1 in a training match on August 8, 2025. This match was significant as it marked the debut of Xabi Alonso as head coach for Real Madrid in this preseason.

The match began surprisingly for Alonso. Leganés took an early lead with a goal from Sule, a promising young player. However, Real Madrid quickly regained control and showcased their strength, despite only starting preseason training five days prior.

Xabi Alonso fielded a mostly starting lineup, adopting an aggressive 4-3-3 formation. Notable newcomers included Carreras, who joined the team after the FIFA Club World Cup, and Kylian Mbappé, who donned the number 10 jersey previously held by Luka Modric.

Alonso’s starting eleven featured Courtois in goal, with a defense comprising Dani Carvajal, Huijsen, Asencio, and Carreras. The midfield included Valverde, Ceballos, and Brahim, while Mbappé, Vinicius, and Gonzalo led the attack. Carvajal, a Leganés native, also returned to action after spending time recovering from a knee injury.

Despite the dominant performance, Franco Mastantuono, the club’s latest signing, was absent from action as he awaits his 18th birthday on August 14, before beginning training with the team.

In contrast, Leganés, having been relegated to Segunda División last season, has had a more extensive preseason, starting their training on July 1. They have participated in six summer matches and are set to play their seventh against Oviedo at their home ground, Instalación Deportiva Butarque.

The match against Oviedo will serve as a critical test for manager Paco López, who opted to field a younger, more inexperienced squad against Real Madrid.