Alvaro Carreras, Dean Huijsen, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, all brought in by Real Madrid just last summer, are reportedly set to begin the 2026/27 campaign much lower in Jose Mourinho's pecking order. This isn't some slow burn, either; it's happening before a single ball has even been kicked in the new La Liga season, a brutal reality check for a trio once seen as the future of the Bernabeu back line.
Mourinho's Message Is Crystal Clear
When Jose Mourinho rolls into town, you know things are gonna change fast. This dude isn't one for compromises; he shapes teams in his own image, rewarding players who can deliver *right now* and not caring one bit about reputations or massive transfer fees. According to journalist Ruben Martin, whose report was relayed by Defensa Central, Mourinho has a super clear vision for his defense. He's not sticking with the guys who finished last season. Nope. He wants to build around Marc Cucurella, Ibrahima Konate, and Denzel Dumfries. Why? Because Mourinho believes those guys bring the experience, physicality, and tactical discipline needed to make his ideas work from day one. He means business, and it's all about defensive organization for him.A Stunning Turnaround For The Trio
Talk about a gut punch. Just 12 months ago, Carreras, Huijsen, and Alexander-Arnold were the poster boys for Real Madrid's long-term plan. Everyone expected them to gradually become regular starters. Now, before the new season has even properly begun, they're facing the very real possibility of watching the opening weeks from the bench. Trent Alexander-Arnold, for example, is gonna face direct competition from Denzel Dumfries. Carreras is already slated as second-choice left-back. This is a remarkable turnaround, plain and simple. They've gotta convince one of football's most demanding managers that they deserve a spot in his strongest XI, and they don't have much time to do it. That's the harsh reality of playing under Mourinho. Every season starts with a clean slate, but nobody, absolutely nobody, is guaranteed a shirt. It's sink or swim, and these guys are already trying to keep their heads above water. What happens in those opening weeks for Real Madrid, and how these three respond, is going to tell us everything.This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.