Fernando Carro, the CEO of Bayer Leverkusen, has voiced his insights regarding Xabi Alonso‘s current role at Real Madrid, emphasizing the stark differences in coaching environments. In an interview with Sky, Carro remarked on Alonso’s exceptional talent but noted that the context in Madrid presents unique challenges. He indicated that when the president views a coach as a “necessary evil,” it creates a different atmosphere, particularly when criticism is directed solely at the coach. This contrasts sharply with Alonso’s time at Leverkusen, where there was a collective effort to support him both on and off the pitch.
During his tenure at Bayer Leverkusen, Alonso fostered a collaborative spirit that allowed him to thrive. Carro highlighted that everyone within the club worked towards a common goal, ensuring that Alonso was politically supported. This unity stands in stark contrast to the current situation at Madrid, where external pressures and expectations can weigh heavily on the coaching staff. The environment can be isolating for a coach who bears the brunt of criticism without adequate backing.
Alonso’s Continued Connection with Leverkusen
Despite the challenges he faces at Real Madrid, Carro maintains a strong relationship with Alonso. He shared that during the recent FIFA international break, he had the opportunity to spend quality time with Alonso and his coaching staff. “I spent a weekend in Madrid, and they visited our home twice,” Carro revealed. This personal connection underlines their mutual respect and the bond formed during their three years together at Leverkusen.
The Pressure Cooker of Real Madrid
The expectations placed upon coaches at Real Madrid are notoriously high, often leading to a pressure cooker environment. With club president Florentino PĂ©rez’s emphasis on results and trophies, any misstep can quickly lead to scrutiny and calls for change. As Carro pointed out, this dynamic is fundamentally different from what Alonso experienced in Germany, where he enjoyed more solidarity from club leadership and fans alike.
As Real Madrid continues its campaign in the 2024-2025 season under Carlo Ancelotti‘s guidance, questions arise about how long Alonso might remain on their radar as a future managerial candidate. Will he be able to navigate through the turbulent waters of one of football’s most demanding clubs? Only time will tell if he can replicate his success from Leverkusen in such a challenging environment.
Ultimately, Alonso’s journey serves as a reminder of how crucial support systems are for coaches in high-stakes environments like Real Madrid. The question remains: can he find his footing amidst the pressures of La Liga?
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