As the 2025-2026 La Liga season unfolds, Xabi Alonso has taken the helm at Real Madrid with an impressive record that speaks volumes about his managerial prowess. With six consecutive wins to start the campaign, the former midfield maestro is not only keeping the winning tradition alive but is also instilling a fresh, dynamic approach that has captured the imagination of fans across the globe.
A Flawless Start and Comparisons to Ancelotti
Alonso’s Real Madrid is currently riding high on a perfect 100% win rate, a feat that has inevitably led to comparisons with his predecessor, Carlo Ancelotti. While Ancelotti was renowned for his tactical flexibility and ability to get results, Alonso is already showing signs of injecting a more vibrant style into the team. This shift is evident both in defensive solidity and attacking flair.
The Merengues have displayed a newfound resilience at the back, bolstered by defenders like Huijsen and Carreras, who have seamlessly integrated into the squad. Furthermore, Alonso benefits from a healthier roster compared to last season, significantly reducing injury woes that plagued Ancelotti’s tenure.
An Attractive Style of Play
In attack, despite largely working with the same core group of players, excluding new signing Franco Mastantuono, Alonso has transformed Real Madrid’s offensive play into something more fluid and aggressive. The team now creates far more opportunities than it did last year, showcasing an improved pressing game reminiscent of some of Europe’s elite clubs.
The tactical evolution under Alonso is characterized by high pressing and quick transitions—elements that are increasingly popular in modern football. Fans can see shades of how clubs like Liverpool dominate in the Premier League through relentless pressure and swift counter-attacks. This change not only makes matches more entertaining but also elevates Real Madrid’s status as genuine contenders for both La Liga and European glory.
Tactical Insights: Bridging Styles Across Europe
Alonso’s strategy integrates various elements from top leagues around Europe. For instance, his emphasis on quick ball recovery mirrors Jürgen Klopp’s philosophy at Liverpool. By forcing opponents into mistakes high up the pitch, Real Madrid can capitalize on their attacking talents swiftly—something that will be crucial in high-stakes matches against teams like Barcelona or during UEFA Champions League knockout rounds.
This tactical acumen was particularly evident in their recent 3-1 victory over Levante, where Real Madrid dominated possession (66%) and registered a remarkable 20 shots on goal compared to Levante’s 5. Such statistics highlight not just dominance but an intent to overwhelm opponents—a clear reflection of Alonso’s ambitions for this squad.
The Implications of Success
The implications of this strong start are significant for both players and management. For those in contention for starting positions, including young talents looking to break into first-team football, Alonso’s willingness to adapt tactics means opportunities abound for those who impress during training sessions.
This success may also put pressure on club president Florentino Pérez, who will be keenly observing how this new strategy translates into silverware. With every win building momentum, expectations will undoubtedly rise as fans anticipate deep runs in both domestic and European competitions.
Looking Ahead: Challenges Awaiting
The road ahead won’t be without its challenges; key fixtures against traditional rivals such as Atlético Madrid loom large on the horizon. Each match will serve as a litmus test for Alonso’s methods and how well they hold up against varying styles—an essential aspect if they aim to reclaim their dominance both domestically and in Europe.
Moreover, upcoming Champions League group stage matches will provide another platform for Alonso to showcase his strategic vision on an international stage—where the stakes are higher than ever. His ability to juggle league commitments while mounting a serious challenge in Europe could define his first season as head coach.
In summary, Xabi Alonso’s reign at Real Madrid has commenced with great promise—his perfect start serving as evidence of his capability to inspire and lead one of football’s most storied clubs into a new era filled with hope and potential.