Real Madrid’s New Era Under Xabi Alonso Begins with a Bold Vision
So, let’s talk about the new era at Real Madrid, and it all starts with Xabi Alonso taking the helm as manager. Now, many fans might remember Alonso from his playing days—he spent five successful years at the club, lifting the Champions League, La Liga, and a couple of Copa del Rey trophies. But now, he’s swapped his boots for the dugout, bringing a fresh philosophy to the Santiago Bernabeu.
The journey hasn’t started smoothly. Real Madrid faced a 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup semi-finals, and while that scoreline stung, Alonso insists it marks the end of last season. Everything moving forward is being judged on adaptation—how quickly the team can embrace his ideas and show improvement. It’s clear that individual egos will have to take a back seat. Alonso’s style emphasizes collective play over personal glory, which is quite a shift for a club known for celebrating star talent.
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Tactically, the changes are already noticeable. The team has been seen using a high press, designed not just to regain possession but to protect key players like Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappe from excessive defensive work. In recent friendly action, Madrid’s 4-0 win against Tirol in Austria showcased a more positional style, aligned with modern trends. Players are being asked to sacrifice some freedom for the good of the team, and that will be the ultimate test—will the stars embrace it, or will Alonso have to make some tough choices on the bench?
Speaking of the stars, Vinicius remains central to Madrid’s story. The Brazilian, who has yet to finalize his contract renewal, will see his on-pitch freedom slightly curtailed. Alongside Mbappe, and with Jude Bellingham in a more defined role behind them, defensive responsibility will increase. Last season, Bellingham enjoyed too much tactical liberty, leading to inconsistent performances. Alonso plans to keep him closer to goal, aiming to recreate the impactful form of his debut season at Madrid.
On the right flank, Trent Alexander-Arnold is being tested against Dani Carvajal, who is returning from knee surgery. Alexander-Arnold’s passing range and precision could be a game-changer, but La Liga’s tactical sharpness will require him to adapt quickly. Meanwhile, the departure of Toni Kroos has left a void that is being addressed by Dean Huijsen and Aurelien Tchouameni, who will help maintain tempo and control in midfield, while Arda Guler is being reinvented in a central role to unlock attacks.
And then there’s Rodrygo, who faces more competition from new signings including Franco Mastantuono. His integration into the 4-3-3 system will take time, but he remains a valued part of Alonso’s evolving squad.
All in all, Real Madrid under Xabi Alonso is being redefined. The emphasis on teamwork, tactical discipline, and managing egos sets the stage for a fascinating season. One thing is certain—the club’s identity is being tested, and how quickly players embrace this collective mindset will determine whether this new era will be celebrated or critiqued.
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