Asier Illarramendi
He arrived last season for over 30 million euros. Seen as the natural heir to Xabi Alonso’s spot, the youngster didn’t have a good first season. He’s also young, but he wasted his chance to impress last season. This year he will pay for that as he will be considered a regular member of the bench.
Almost coming off as shy and intimidated, he lacked the mental and technical capacity to control the team. Making passes to the teammate closest to him was his regular task. However, he needs to do more than that. Recovering the ball and providing those key long-range passes are an essential part of replacing Xabi.
While he still has some time to learn from the master, Asier has incredible competition this year. With Kroos, James, Isco and Modrić, he has to prove to Carlo that he’s different and should play. The Bernabéu is getting very impatient with him, so if he doesn’t bring it this season, he will most likely be sold.
Out of all the midfielders, Xabi and Asier are the only ones that understand how to help the defenders. More needs to be done to maintain the balance. If Illarra can manage to perform well when he’s given minutes, he will regain everyone’s trust. One more year next to Xabi Alonso should make him improve. For him, it’s also now or never.
