Xabi Alonso breathes easy, but pressure mounts on Real Madrid

Xabi Alonso may have secured a narrow victory at Mendizorrotza, but the relief felt at Valdebebas is tempered by lingering concerns. The three points gained are crucial for Real Madrid‘s standings, yet the overall performance raises alarm bells. While the win provides immediate respite, it does little to address the deeper issues plaguing the team’s cohesion and fluidity. Doubts remain regarding the squad’s ability to elevate its game under the current circumstances, with this victory acting merely as a temporary painkiller rather than a cure for the underlying ailments within the locker room.

Last season’s struggles still loom large over the club, particularly the fallout from the Supercopa de España that signaled a turning point for the previous coaching staff. As 2025 approaches, two pivotal matches await: a Copa del Rey clash against Talavera and a home fixture against Sevilla FC. These encounters will be critical in determining whether Alonso’s project has any short-term viability. Beyond mere results, club officials are searching for a spark—a sign of rebellion against mediocrity. The hope is that this resurgence can come under Alonso’s stewardship, but time is running out, and positive indicators remain elusive.

Physical Struggles and Internal Tensions

Recent reports from AS indicate that the squad is grappling with significant physical challenges, complicating efforts to regain competitive sharpness mid-season. The task of addressing these athletic deficiencies while navigating intense fixtures is daunting at best. Alonso must find ways to rejuvenate his players and restore some of the optimism that accompanied his arrival at the club.

External Pressures and Coaching Speculation

The atmosphere surrounding Real Madrid has not been helped by external influences, notably comments from Fernando Carro, CEO of Bayer Leverkusen. His remarks about visiting Alonso and highlighting his isolation were met with irritation at Valdebebas, seen as an unnecessary intrusion given the already strained relations following Alonso’s release clause payment. This situation adds to the sense of isolation that has been reported in recent media.

In light of these uncertainties, speculation regarding potential coaching changes has intensified. According to AS, various agents have approached Real Madrid’s management in recent days to present their clients as possible replacements. However, club officials have firmly stated that there is currently no active search for external candidates. Should a change occur, it appears likely that an internal solution would be favored—potentially involving Santiago Solari returning with a familiar staff from Valdebebas.

The upcoming Supercopa de España will serve as a critical litmus test for Alonso—a challenge that Carlo Ancelotti failed last year. Success in this tournament could mark a significant milestone for Alonso’s tenure; failure may prompt further scrutiny of his leadership.