Xabi Alonso Faces Pressure at Real Madrid After Tough Start

It wasn’t the plan. Brought in to guide Real Madrid into a promising new chapter following Carlo Ancelotti’s disappointing final season, Xabi Alonso now finds himself under scrutiny after only six months in the managerial role.

Recent Developments

Reports emerging from Spain indicated that a defeat against Manchester City in the Champions League on December 10 could lead to Alonso’s dismissal. Although his team suffered a 2-1 loss, he remains in charge for the time being. However, the club’s management should consider allowing him the necessary time to implement his vision.

Challenges with Star Players

Real Madrid holds a significant position in the football world, often regarded as the largest club globally, yet it operates like a spectacle. Any performance below the highest standards is dissected, reminiscent of Cristiano Ronaldo’s experience, where even he faced the ire of fans on occasion.

Alonso’s tenure was expected to usher in considerable change. While Ancelotti had many strengths, tactical refinement was not his hallmark; he is one of the few modern coaches to achieve success without a detailed strategic focus.

The former player entered a locker room brimming with international stars used to operating on their terms under Ancelotti. Talented players like Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham often neglected defensive roles, focusing instead on attacking.

Alonso was hailed as La Liga’s manager of the month in August, yet performance has since declined. When egos clash, discontent rises, leading to a loss of authority for Alonso and underwhelming match results.

In the 21st century, Real Madrid has seen 19 different head coaches, including two separate terms for both Zinedine Zidane and Ancelotti. Their recent records show Zidane managed 114 games and Ancelotti 234.

While this may suggest a need for patience, a closer inspection reveals that Julen Lopetegui and Santiago Solari had brief tenures, lasting only 14 and 32 games, respectively. The expectation for immediate results is immense, and even Alonso’s connection to the club may not afford him much leeway.

Pressing Issues

Alonso grapples with issues similar to those that affected Ancelotti in his final season, notably the team’s lack of intensity while defending. His side at Bayer Leverkusen was known for applying relentless pressure, yet he has yet to convince the Real Madrid stars to emulate that ethos.

To incorporate the offensive talent at his disposal while appeasing unhappy players, Alonso has switched to a 4-4-2 formation out of possession. However, forwards like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. have not consistently applied pressure.

The 2-0 loss against Celta Vigo highlighted significant concerns. Early in the match, Federico Valverde appeared to look towards the bench, unsure whether to apply pressure to opposing attackers or maintain shape.

This disorganization allowed Celta to navigate through Real relatively easily, despite the latter controlling the majority of possession. It wasn’t until a red card for Fran Garcia late in the game that players seemed to recognize they might lose.

Alonso’s strategy relies on complete unity from every player, yet Madrid’s performance has been marked by fragmented efforts and inconsistent decision-making.

Is There Hope for Alonso?

There is certainly potential for improvement, but the situation might deteriorate before it gets better. The influence of star players poses a challenge, and for Alonso to succeed, tough decisions will be necessary that may hurt feelings.

Vinicius Jr. may become a focal point for these decisions due to ongoing contract negotiations that aren’t benefiting the team. His contributions in front of goal do not justify the high salary demands, no matter his talent.

Real Madrid has upheld the ‘Galactico’ philosophy for too long. The appointment of Alonso, a manager with a solid tactical approach, represents a progressive move, and now the club must commit to this direction.