Xabi Alonso’s Record-Breaking Start at Real Madrid

Xabi Alonso is proving that he is more than capable of handling the pressure at Real Madrid. The former Bayer Leverkusen coach has made an impressive start to his tenure, achieving a remarkable 16 victories in his first 19 matches. His journey with the club began last summer, where he showcased his potential during the FIFA Club World Cup, despite suffering a heavy 4-0 defeat to PSG.

Alonso’s impact has been felt immediately in La Liga, where Real Madrid has amassed an impressive 27 points from their first ten matches. This includes nine victories, with a crucial win against arch-rivals Barcelona recently solidifying their position at the top of the table. However, a concerning blemish on their record remains—a 5-2 loss to Atlético Madrid on September 27. In the UEFA Champions League, Alonso’s squad has been flawless so far, winning all three of their matches. Given the high expectations surrounding Real Madrid in Europe, particularly after last season’s quarter-final exit, the team is eager to reclaim its status as a continental powerhouse. The recent victory over Juventus (1-0) has provided a much-needed boost of confidence.

Building a Cohesive Unit

Beyond just the statistics, Alonso is instilling a compelling style of play that is beginning to take shape. His tactical acumen is evident in the blossoming partnership between Arda Güler and Kylian Mbappé. The young Turkish midfielder seamlessly connects with the French striker, who has already netted 16 goals in just 19 appearances for both Real Madrid and the French national team since the start of the 2025-2026 season. Defensively, Real Madrid is displaying greater solidity this campaign, conceding only 12 goals across all competitions—a significant improvement from last season’s vulnerabilities.

Bold Decisions Paying Off

Alonso’s early choices have also been noteworthy; he made an immediate statement by appointing Güler as a key starter and opting to place Rodrygo on the bench. The gradual reintegration of Eduardo Camavinga, who has recently returned from injury, has also been managed effectively by the Spanish coach. So far, these decisions have been validated by a record-breaking start to the season that speaks volumes about Alonso’s vision and leadership.

As Real Madrid continues to soar under his guidance, one question remains: can Xabi Alonso maintain this momentum? With each passing match, he not only breaks records but also reshapes the identity of this storied club.