Xabi Alonso Faces Challenges, But Dressing Room Bond Remains Strong

Francesco Mauri, former assistant coach to Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid, shared insights on Xabi Alonso‘s current position at Bayer Leverkusen, emphasizing that he has not lost the support of his players. In an interview with Diario AS, Mauri expressed his admiration for Alonso, recalling their time together at both Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. “He’s one of those players who makes your job easier,” he noted, highlighting Alonso’s significant contributions on and off the pitch.

Mauri drew parallels between Alonso’s present challenges and those faced by Real Madrid during their transition phase last season. “He’s living the same problems we had last season,” he explained. The former assistant coach acknowledged that Alonso is navigating a complex period as he seeks to strike a balance between attacking flair and defensive solidity. “His job is to solve the puzzle by fitting all the pieces together to be effective in attack and defense, and that isn’t simple,” Mauri added.

Tactical Adjustments Under Pressure

When asked whether Alonso is in a precarious position, Mauri pointed out the difficulties inherent in coaching a club like Real Madrid. “It isn’t easy to coach Madrid and change concepts,” he remarked. Reflecting on their own tactical evolution during the 2023-24 season, he recalled how they initially employed a diamond formation with high pressing but had to adapt following a disappointing 3-1 defeat at Atlético Madrid. “It’s intelligent not to be stubborn with an idea if it isn’t working,” he stated, reinforcing the need for flexibility in strategy.

Maintaining Player Relationships

Mauri firmly rejected claims of any rift between Alonso and his squad, asserting that such narratives are often exaggerated. “That always happens, but it’s nonsense to say players try to get a coach sacked. It’s an exaggeration,” he said. He emphasized that results are what truly define perceptions within the club: “If you don’t win, it looks like you don’t know football and don’t belong here. Madrid is like that.”

As Alonso continues to navigate this challenging landscape, Mauri believes he is still the right man for the job at Bayer Leverkusen. “His situation isn’t ideal, but it’s about finding the system that makes you win because if you win, everything else becomes easier,” he concluded. The road ahead may be tough for Alonso, but with the right adjustments and continued support from his players, brighter days could lie ahead.