Real Madrid ended 2025 on a high note, securing a 2-0 victory over Sevilla FC, thanks to goals from Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé. This win provided a temporary respite from the storm brewing around Santiago Bernabéu, but for coach Xabi Alonso, the relief is fleeting. The upcoming month promises to be a grueling test of endurance and strategy as he faces a critical juncture in his managerial career.
As the calendar turns to January 2026, Real Madrid finds itself at a pivotal moment. With three competitions looming in just three weeks—La Liga, the Supercopa de España, and the UEFA Champions League—Alonso’s position is precarious. Each match carries significant weight, and any misstep could reignite the crisis that has been simmering within the club. The pressure is palpable as fans and analysts alike scrutinize every decision made by the coaching staff.
A Challenging Start to the Year
The new year kicks off with a challenging fixture against Real Betis on January 4th. The team will need to hit the ground running as they face a Betis side managed by Manuel Pellegrini, who is known for his tactical acumen. Currently in contention for European qualification, Betis will not be an easy opponent. Just four days later, on January 8th, Los Blancos will take flight to face their arch-rivals Atlético de Madrid in the semi-finals of the Supercopa de España. This derby is not just another match; it’s a chance for redemption and a shot at silverware early in the season.
The Stakes Are High
If Real Madrid emerges victorious against Atlético, they will advance to the final on January 12th, but an early exit would spell disaster for Alonso’s reputation and future at the helm. Following this intense derby clash, the schedule provides what seems like a more manageable match against Levante on January 18th, yet it poses its own risks. As the bottom-placed team in La Liga, Levante will be desperate for points, making them a potential banana skin for an overconfident Madrid side.
The pressure mounts further with a crucial UEFA Champions League encounter against AS Monaco on January 20th. Currently sitting ninth in their group with only nine points, Madrid must secure victory to avoid slipping into the perilous territory of playoffs. Finally, they will conclude this demanding month with an away match against Villarreal on January 25th. The Yellow Submarine has been impressive this season and poses a serious challenge as both teams vie for podium positions.
This month will be defining for Xabi Alonso and his squad—success could reinvigorate their campaign and restore confidence among fans and players alike. However, failure could lead to questions about Alonso’s future and potentially spark significant changes within the club’s structure. Will Real Madrid rise to the occasion or falter under pressure? Only time will tell.
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