Real Madrid will kick off their 2026 campaign against Real Betis at the Santiago Bernabeu on January 4.
This is a must-win race for Xabi Alonso, and it could be one of his three finals to start the year. However, that task has been made difficult due to the recent injury to Kylian Mbappe, who has reportedly been sidelined for three weeks.
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To make matters worse, Real Madrid recently sanctioned Ndrick’s loan exit and Brahim Diaz is currently on international duty, effectively leaving Alonso short of attacking options.
Cesar Palacios knocks on Real Madrid first-team door
Given Real Madrid’s severe lack of depth in attack, there is growing chatter about club youngster Cesar Palacios.
According to AS, Palacios is close to knocking on the door of Real Madrid’s first team after performing well for Castilla under Alvaro Arbeloa.
Although Palacios is an attacking midfielder, he impressed onlookers with his performances in the number nine position and even became the club’s top scorer.
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Despite his impressive performances, Palacios was consistently overlooked by Alonso. But with attacking options dwindling, this weekend is the perfect opportunity for Alonso to put Palacios in contention for his Real Madrid debut.
La Liga and Bundesliga clubs are paying attention to Palacios
Palacios’ performances have not gone unnoticed by other European clubs, however, with clubs from La Liga and the Bundesliga reportedly interested in his services.
In fact, the report suggests that three Spanish clubs and one German side are considering potential moves for Real Madrid’s youth players.
It further added that if Palacios continues to struggle to gain Alonso’s approval, especially with Kylian Mbappe, Ndrick and Brahim not in the first-team squad, his departure seems inevitable.