Xabi Alonso returns to Real Madrid as the club’s new manager following Carlo Ancelotti’s departure. With Los Blancos finishing the season trophyless and preparing for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, the former midfielder has three key challenges ahead:
1. Restoring Tactical Balance
Alonso inherits a squad that struggled with structure and consistency. Ancelotti publicly complained of an unbalanced team, overloaded in attack but exposed at the back, especially following injuries and the unaddressed retirement of Toni Kroos. Alonso must:
- Integrate Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Junior in a way that avoids tactical overlap and defensive vulnerability.
- Rebuild midfield control and discipline without Kroos and Luka Modrić (who departs after the Club World Cup).
- Possibly implement his preferred 3-4-3 system, which could suit new arrivals like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen.
2. Managing Star Egos
Real Madrid’s dressing room is filled with high-profile names and even higher expectations. Ancelotti thrived at managing personalities like Ronaldo, Bale, and Vinicius, maintaining harmony while producing results. Alonso must:
- Command respect as a former Madrid star while establishing his authority as a first-time manager at this level.
- Keep harmony between egos such as Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius.
- Maintain good relationships not only with players, but also club president Florentino Pérez and the Madrid media.
3. Reversing the Clasico Trend
Barcelona humiliated Madrid in all four Clásicos this season, including:
- A 4-0 rout at the Bernabéu.
- A decisive 4-3 win to reclaim the La Liga title.
- Wins in both the Copa del Rey (3-2) and Supercopa de España (5-2) finals.
Hansi Flick’s Barça used high pressing and tactical fluidity to expose Madrid’s flaws. Alonso must quickly develop a plan to make Madrid competitive again in these marquee matchups.
Xabi Alonso appointment has generated excitement, but these three issues will define his early months in charge.
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