Newly appointed Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has decided on the tactical formation he will implement at the Spanish giants, opting for a classic 4-3-3 system rather than continuing with the three-at-the-back approach that brought him success at Bayer Leverkusen.

The 43-year-old Spaniard, who recently took over from Carlo Ancelotti after the Italian departed to coach the Brazil national team, has determined that the traditional 4-3-3 formation better suits the current Real Madrid squad, according to a report by Marca.

During his highly successful tenure at Bayer Leverkusen, Alonso predominantly utilized a 3-4-2-1 formation. However, the former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder has assessed his new squad and decided against implementing a three-center-back system at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Alonso is already preparing for his first challenge as Real Madrid manager, with the FIFA Club World Cup scheduled for later this month. His debut match will be against Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal at the Hard Rock Stadium on June 18.

The tactical decision comes as Alonso inherits a squad that includes stars like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and new signing Kylian Mbappé, whose attacking talents could flourish in the 4-3-3 system that has historically been associated with Real Madrid's successful periods.

This formation choice represents Alonso's first major decision since taking the helm at his former club, where he played for five seasons between 2009 and 2014, winning the Champions League and La Liga among other honors.