Álvaro Negredo, the former striker who hung up his boots in the summer of 2024, has shared his insights on the early season performance of Real Madrid under the guidance of Xabi Alonso. The ex-Real Madrid Castilla player, known for his stints at Manchester City, Sevilla, and Valencia, believes that Alonso’s appointment as head coach is a wise choice that is already yielding positive results.
Negredo emphasized that despite Alonso’s relative youth in coaching, he exhibits remarkable maturity and an ability to handle the immense pressure associated with managing a club of Real Madrid’s stature. “They needed to start the season strong,” he stated, reflecting on the team’s overall performance. “There will always be ups and downs in La Liga. They faced a tough period against Atlético, but overall, the beginning has been excellent.”
Tactical Acumen and Star Management
In his analysis, Negredo pointed out the tactical challenges Alonso faces with star attackers like Kylian Mbappé, Rodrygo, and Vinicius. Rather than simply deploying a trio of forwards, Alonso opts for a balanced 4-4-2 formation that enhances both defensive solidity and offensive efficiency. This strategic choice aims to maximize the potential of his attacking players while maintaining a robust defensive structure.
Negredo also highlighted the importance of patience and effective game time management within the squad. He noted that even high-profile players like Vinicius may need to accept moments on the bench but must remain ready to seize opportunities when they arise. “The rotation system implemented by Alonso is crucial for maintaining balance and motivation within the team,” he added.
Comparative Insights from Manchester City
Drawing parallels with his former club Manchester City, Negredo acknowledged that even seasoned coaches can encounter challenging phases. He expressed confidence in Pep Guardiola‘s ability to navigate through such difficulties, suggesting that Alonso possesses similar qualities necessary for steering Real Madrid toward success. This comparison underscores Negredo’s belief in Alonso’s potential to thrive in one of football’s most demanding environments.
In conclusion, Negredo’s insights reflect a growing optimism around Real Madrid’s prospects under Xabi Alonso. As the season progresses, fans will be eager to see how this young coach continues to shape his team’s identity and performance on the pitch.
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