Jorge Valdano, the former Real Madrid coach and player, has stirred the local media with his insights into Xabi Alonso‘s coaching project at the club. Speaking on Movistar Plus, Valdano shared his perspective on the complexities of managing a team like Real Madrid, especially during this challenging start to the season. His comments, widely reported by Marca, highlight the intense expectations placed on coaches in Madrid. “Welcome to Real Madrid,” he said. “If you make too many changes, you’re seen as a revolutionary; if you don’t make enough, you’re labeled as stagnant. This club demands excellence and has little tolerance for defeat or draws.”
Valdano, who knows the pressures of the role firsthand, emphasized that coaching Real Madrid is far more challenging than managing any other club due to the immense scrutiny and expectation from fans and management alike. He pointed out that Xabi Alonso is navigating a particularly difficult landscape as he implements his tactical vision. Valdano criticized Alonso’s system, which he claims has not evolved since his time at Bayer Leverkusen. “The tactical setup against Elche felt familiar,” he remarked. “But formations without defined roles are ineffective; as César Luis Menotti said, they are merely ‘phone numbers’.”
Midfield Woes
According to Valdano, one of the critical issues plaguing Real Madrid lies within their midfield. He noted that Alonso struggles to find players capable of providing clarity and fluidity in play, which he believes hampers both offensive and defensive efforts. “Xabi Alonso has yet to discover midfielders who can bring discernment and fluidity to the team,” Valdano stated, adding that this deficiency is detrimental to their overall performance. He also expressed concern over young talent Arda Güler’s diminishing influence in matches. “Güler has shown promise this season with consistent performances, but he’s now being forced to play deeper, which disconnects him from players like Mbappé,” he explained.
The Weight of Expectations
Valdano concluded by empathizing with Alonso’s plight amid the relentless pressure that comes with managing at such a prestigious club. “The environment surrounding both the club and Xabi Alonso gives off an impression that playing under this pressure is extraordinarily challenging,” he remarked. This sentiment resonates deeply within the context of Real Madrid’s storied history and its unyielding demand for success.
The road ahead remains steep for Xabi Alonso as he seeks to implement his vision while navigating the high stakes of leading one of football’s most iconic clubs. Will he adapt quickly enough to meet these demands? Only time will tell.
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