Real Madrid has been active this summer, making significant moves to improve the team for the upcoming season. Following the appointment of Xabi Alonso as manager, the club has also completed key signings, including Dean Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Franco Mastantuono. These efforts aim to rebound from a disappointing 2024/25 season, where the team failed to win any major titles.
Under the leadership of club president Florentino Pérez, Real Madrid is committed to providing Alonso with the resources needed to return to the top of European football.
Two New Fitness Coaches Join Alonso’s Staff
In line with these efforts, Real Madrid has further strengthened its backroom staff with the addition of two new fitness coaches. Guillermo Rai of The Athletic reports that the club has hired Javier Arnaiz and Ismael Fernandez for permanent roles on the first-team staff. These appointments come alongside Ismael Camenforte, who was brought in when Alonso first joined the team.
Arnaiz, a former performance manager for the Mexican national team, will focus on players’ physical conditioning and fitness routines. Fernandez, who holds a Ph.D. in Sports Science, will specialize in data analysis, providing a scientific approach to player fitness.
Both coaches bring valuable experience to the club. They have previously worked with Real Madrid and will introduce a cutting-edge method called ‘Thermohuman’. This technique uses infrared thermography to assess the physical condition of players, allowing for more precise monitoring of their health and fitness.
These additions come after a string of injury issues that have plagued Real Madrid in recent years, which the club is eager to address. Additionally, there were concerns over the methods used by former fitness coach Antonio Pintus, who will now take on a new role within Alonso’s staff.
Real Madrid is also planning to add another fitness trainer to focus on on-field work, further underlining the club’s determination to improve player fitness and reduce injuries moving forward.
