Real Madrid continues to plan for next season while the squad prepares for the final stretch of the season with its sights set on what is still at stake, which is no small feat, including the Club World Cup. One of the positions that Real Madrid will strengthen no matter what is center back, and it seems that it has already decided on the player who will come to reinforce the defense.
Real Madrid and the mistakes of the past
Real Madrid has made the same mistake in the last two seasons with its defense. In a team where the specialists at the back must be top-notch, the Whites have opted in recent seasons to have two starters and two reserves. What they could not have expected, but is part of soccer, is that these players would suffer such serious injuries.
Such is the case with Militao and Alaba. The former has suffered two cruciate ligament tears that have kept him out for the last two seasons. Last season, Nacho was there and the team was able to get through the season, although it was tough. But this year, the decision was made to go with only three center backs in the squad: Militao got injured again and Alaba took a long time to return and, as of today, he is far from the center back he once was. The emergence of Asencio has managed to hold together a team that has collapsed.
Real Madrid is confident that Militao and Alaba will return to their best for next season, but it will not make the same mistake again and will bring in a fifth center back to cover its back in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
Real Madrid chooses Tah
Everything indicates that Real Madrid is going to sign Tah, one of the best center backs in the Bundesliga, at no cost, as the player’s contract with Bayern Leverkusen is ending and he has already announced his departure from the German club. The player has significant offers from the Premier League, but the idea of playing for Real Madrid is particularly appealing to him. In this regard, Xabi Alonso has a lot to say. The more than likely arrival of the Basque coach on the Real Madrid bench is decisive for the player’s decision. Both currently play for the same team in Germany and could continue to do so next season at Real Madrid. This is one of the determining factors that would tip the balance in favor of the player heading to the Spanish capital.
Jonathan Tah turned 29 in February, and his 6’5 height makes him a very powerful player in the air. Despite his size, he is an agile and fast player, and a nuisance for forwards in one-on-one situations. In addition, he has enough class to bring the ball out from the back and combine with his teammates. Xabi Alonso has often praised the player’s qualities and has no doubt that he has what it takes to be Real Madrid’s defensive leader.
Real Madrid’s transfer policy
Tah’s arrival is in line with Real Madrid’s transfer policy in recent seasons. Although the club is focusing on young talent at a reduced cost, in defense it has opted for proven players, such as Rudiger and Alaba in recent years. The fact that he is coming for free gives Real Madrid a reliable center back without having to spend a single dollar for at least the next four seasons.
Real Madrid has already made its decision, and everything indicates that Jonathan Tah will become a player for the white team next summer. With his signing, Real Madrid seals its defense for the coming seasons.