Xabi Alonso, the manager of Real Madrid, is currently facing an uncertain future as the team’s performance has seen a noticeable decline. After opening the season in strong form, the pressure is hitting Alonso hard now. His recent FA Cup 1-0 loss to Liverpool was met with a tidal wave of criticism over his tactical decision-making. Reports indicate that a loss in the next match against Barcelona at the Bernabeu on March 2nd may be the final straw for his sacking.
Alonso started his career at Real Madrid off so hot. He had the luxury of a deep field organizationally and remarkably won 15 of his first 16 games! In October, he won an eye-catching 2-1 away against Barcelona in El Clasico. His tactics, most notably a pressing game, were the same winning ones he’d used at Bayer Leverkusen and quickly became apparent during the match. At Bayer Leverkusen, Alonso led the team to a remarkable double in an unbeaten domestic campaign for the 2023/24 season.
Yet doing the same thing at Real Madrid has been much more difficult. The change had made it difficult for the team to find continuity, and recent results had begun to sag. Alonso’s goal is to impose his ideal of collective effort in both attack and defense. Recently, skepticism has started to creep in regarding Jackson’s ability to be a successful head coach.
Through this challenging stretch, Jude Bellingham—Real Madrid’s star performer this season—has made his feelings clear in support of Alonso. He insisted the players were “100 percent strength” backing their manager, a nod to the camaraderie that runs deep in this squad. Bellingham remarked on Alonso’s positive influence:
“I personally have a great relationship with him and I know a lot of the boys do too.” – Jude Bellingham
Bellingham acknowledged the reality of the situation:
“After that run of draws, we had some great conversations internally and felt we’d put that form behind us before the last couple of games. No one is downing tools, no one complaining or moaning. We take it on the chin and keep fighting.” – Jude Bellingham
Alonso’s years as a player at Real Madrid give him a unique perspective and insight. He knows, more than anyone else, what it takes to succeed at the club. He’s just powering through this awkward period with guts and talent. The jury is still out on whether he can take all the playing success he’s had into being an effective coach.
The last home game before the World Cup break will be an especially important one for Alonso. A victory would take the immediate heat off, help restore his confidence and cement him in the managerial role. A defeat could see Real Madrid’s hierarchy forced to reassess their plans and make a change in coaching leadership.
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