Real Madrid is facing a challenging period as they head into the international break. Following disappointing results, including a narrow defeat to Liverpool (1-0) and a lackluster draw against Rayo Vallecano (0-0), the atmosphere within the club has soured. With several players departing for international duty, the upcoming week at Valdebebas promises to be anything but tranquil. Recent reports suggest that tensions between head coach Xabi Alonso and certain players have reached a boiling point, raising concerns about the team’s cohesion.
The Merengues currently sit atop La Liga and are well-positioned in the Champions League‘s top eight. However, their recent performances have left fans questioning the mindset within the dressing room. The discontent appears to stem from various factors, including misunderstood tactical instructions, unexpected player selections, and the management of key figures such as Federico Valverde and Vinicius Jr. Moreover, an overemphasis on video analysis has reportedly contributed to frustrations among the squad. These issues have led to speculation about a rift between Alonso and his players, complicating an already delicate situation.
Underlying Issues Emerge
Sources indicate that the friction between Alonso and parts of the dressing room has been brewing since the Club World Cup, culminating in recent weeks. Players are reportedly struggling to adapt to Alonso’s methods, which some find perplexing. This discord raises questions about the long-term viability of Alonso’s approach as he tries to usher in a new era for Real Madrid following Carlo Ancelotti‘s departure.
Management’s Confidence in Alonso
Despite these internal challenges, it is clear that club management continues to back Alonso as a central figure in their plans for the future. The Madrid hierarchy sees him as pivotal in transitioning the team into a new phase of success. Nevertheless, with mounting pressure from fans and media alike, it’s crucial for both Alonso and his players to address these issues swiftly before they escalate further.
The international break may provide a necessary respite for reflection and recalibration. However, if these tensions persist, it could hinder Real Madrid’s ambitions this season. The question looms large: can Xabi Alonso reestablish harmony within his squad and lead them back to winning ways?
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