Real Madrid: A Troubling Echo of Past Leadership Failures

As the pressure mounts on Xabi Alonso, the challenges facing him are symptomatic of deeper issues within Real Madrid. The club’s current predicament is a reflection not only of Alonso’s management but also of a toxic dressing room atmosphere that has gone unchecked. President Florentino Pérez, in a disconcerting repeat of history, appears to have fostered an environment where complacency thrives, reminiscent of his earlier tenure when he stepped down due to similar concerns. The parallels between the current squad and past teams are striking, raising questions about leadership and accountability.

With the 2024-2025 season underway, Real Madrid has shown flashes of brilliance, yet there remains an unsettling undercurrent. Despite the arrival of promising talents like Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé, the squad struggles with cohesion and discipline. This season has already seen moments where players have openly challenged tactical decisions, drawing comparisons to past incidents involving star players at both Liverpool and Madrid. Such defiance not only undermines Alonso’s authority but also signals a lack of respect for the club’s traditions.

A Dressing Room in Disarray

The current squad is rich in talent but appears to lack the necessary leadership to navigate adversity. Key figures like Dani Carvajal and Luka Modrić are expected to guide younger players; however, their influence seems diminished in a locker room that feels increasingly disconnected. The situation echoes historical missteps where star players have taken precedence over managerial authority. Alonso’s challenge will be to instill discipline without alienating his most gifted players.

Institutional Inaction

The contrasting management styles regarding player conduct—especially in light of Vinícius Júnior‘s recent controversies—highlight institutional weaknesses at Real Madrid. While Liverpool swiftly addressed issues surrounding Mohamed Salah, Madrid’s hesitance to confront internal problems raises alarms about its long-term strategy. The club must act decisively to re-establish a culture of accountability before it spirals further into chaos.

As Alonso navigates this turbulent landscape, one question looms large: Can he turn this ship around before history repeats itself? The stakes are high for both him and the club, as the repercussions of failure could echo far beyond this season. A strong performance against their upcoming rivals will be essential not only for morale but also for reaffirming his authority as head coach.