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Xabi Alonso returns to Real Madrid as head coach, stepping in to replace Carlo Ancelotti and take charge in time for the Club World Cup.
The 43-year-old Spaniard, a former fan favourite in midfield, now faces a series of challenges as he aims to steer the club back to the summit after a trophyless campaign.
News Central outlines three pressing issues Alonso will need to address at the Bernabéu.
1. Rebalancing the Squad
Throughout last season, Ancelotti voiced his frustration over the team’s lack of balance and collective discipline. Injuries ravaged the defence, and the midfield was never quite the same after Toni Kroos retired, with no like-for-like replacement brought in.
Meanwhile, the attack-heavy squad, bolstered by the arrival of Kylian Mbappé, often left Madrid exposed at the back.
Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior initially clashed in positioning, both favouring the left flank. Although the French star eventually adapted to a central role and scored 43 goals in all competitions, the defensive vulnerabilities persisted.
Alonso must devise a system where his attacking duo can coexist without compromising the team’s shape while also plugging the gaps left in midfield and defence. His favoured 3-4-3 formation at Bayer Leverkusen might suit Madrid’s current roster, especially with the anticipated signing of Trent Alexander-Arnold and the acquisition of Bournemouth’s promising defender Dean Huijsen.
2. Managing the Big Names
One of Ancelotti’s standout skills was managing a squad full of high-profile stars. From Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale to Vinícius and Karim Benzema, the Italian was adept at keeping egos in check and spirits high. He also maintained a harmonious relationship with club president Florentino Pérez and the notoriously demanding Spanish press.
Alonso, who carries a similarly commanding presence as former boss Zinedine Zidane, will need to show he can exert that same authority in the dressing room. It’s not just about tactics — diplomacy, emotional intelligence, and timing matter just as much when guiding a club of Madrid’s stature.
3. Responding to Barcelona’s Dominance
Ancelotti’s downfall was accelerated by a woeful record against Barcelona, who thrashed Madrid in all four Clásico meetings last season.
A crushing 4-0 defeat at the Bernabéu in October set the tone, and a 4-3 loss in the return fixture handed the La Liga title back to their bitter rivals.
The misery continued with defeats in both the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup finals, as Hansi Flick’s high-octane tactics and pressing game left Madrid exposed time and again.
Alonso must learn from these painful encounters and figure out how to counter Barcelona’s aggressive style, especially if he hopes to reclaim domestic supremacy.
