The defeat of Real Madrid at Anfield has reignited scrutiny surrounding coach Xabi Alonso. The internal management, tactical approach, and the necessity of securing victories against top-tier teams were focal points discussed on Cadena SER. Despite having led the team to a majority of wins since his appointment, Alonso remains unconvinced in Spain. The heavy loss to PSG during the summer, coupled with setbacks against Atlético in La Liga and Liverpool in the Champions League, have raised alarms, even as his squad boasts a strong record this season.
Currently sitting atop La Liga with a five-point cushion and a notable victory over Barcelona in El Clásico, some analysts still argue that Alonso’s Real Madrid lacks vibrancy. In the program El Larguero on Cadena SER, host Manu Carreño and his panel delved deeply into this matter. Jesús Gallego expressed that the most impressive version of Real Madrid this season was during the Club World Cup: “I appreciated their performance in the World Cup because they operated with three central defenders and two wing-backs. The most complete matches for Real Madrid, particularly against Juventus and Borussia Dortmund, were played using this formation.”
Coaching Concerns
However, not all observers attribute the issues solely to tactical choices. Miguel Martín Talavera highlighted a deeper concern regarding Alonso’s authority within the club: “The problem at Real Madrid is always the same. Xabi Alonso is not the true leader at Real Madrid, and I believe this is the main issue. At Real, coaches are often relegated to secondary roles; the primary communication line runs from the president directly to the players.” He emphasized that Alonso struggles to enforce his ideas when necessary. “When he needs to assert his authority, like last week with Vinicius, he can’t do it because he lacks support from the president.”
Tactical Adjustments Needed
As discussions continue about Alonso’s future tactics, many are advocating for a shift back to a three-center-back system that previously yielded positive results. This formation could potentially bolster both defensive stability and attacking options, allowing players like Vinicius to thrive without being constrained by tactical rigidity. With key fixtures approaching in both domestic and European competitions, how Alonso adapts could prove crucial for his tenure at the helm.
In light of these critiques and challenges, can Xabi Alonso turn around perceptions and lead Real Madrid back to its winning ways? The pressure mounts as fans and analysts alike await his next move.
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