Alonso’s Early Tenure at Real Madrid: Promising Signs Amid Criticism

Xabi Alonso’s tenure as head coach of Real Madrid has begun with considerable intrigue. Appointed at the conclusion of the previous season, the former World Cup-winning midfielder faced a challenging first assignment: the Club World Cup, where he had to navigate with a squad lacking full fitness. Despite reaching the semi-finals, the team encountered a harsh reality against Paris Saint-Germain.

Following a condensed pre-season, Alonso’s squad launched into the 2025-26 season with remarkable vigor, winning their first six La Liga matches. However, they suffered a significant setback in September, losing 5-2 to local rivals Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano Stadium. This defeat proved to be merely a minor obstacle, as the team rebounded impressively by winning their next seven encounters, including a notable victory over Barcelona at the Bernabeu last month.

Although Real Madrid has experienced a dip in form, failing to secure wins in their last two matches across all competitions, Alonso’s leadership has demonstrated that the team possesses a stronger foundation compared to the tumultuous 2024-25 season, during which they were unable to claim any major trophies. Key players like Kylian Mbappe and Arda Guler have emerged as essential components of the squad, with the French captain enjoying a remarkable start, netting 18 goals in 16 appearances.

In a recent interview with AS, Karim Benzema was asked about Alonso’s potential as a coach, reflecting on their time together in the locker room. He noted, “When we played together, it was evident then, and it’s clear now as a coach. Pressure, vertical passing… It’s a style I appreciate. He has been at the helm for only six months and is doing an excellent job; he deserves time.”

Benzema also defended Alonso amidst recent criticisms stemming from the team’s form downturn. “I have faith in this Real Madrid team,” he remarked. “There’s always chatter when they draw or lose, leading to a crisis narrative. They shift from being the world’s best team to questioning the coach and players. It’s part of the territory, given their stature, but I genuinely believe in this team.”

Last week, Carlo Ancelotti, who previously coached Alonso at Bayern Munich, shared his thoughts on the current head coach. “I can’t offer him advice. I watch all Madrid matches because I’m interested in how the Brazilians are performing, and I see that the team is doing well,” Ancelotti remarked. “They have won almost all their matches, but in football, wins are not guaranteed. A draw often signals a crisis at Real Madrid, a lesson I learned during my time there. The evaluation of a coach is primarily based on results, and so far, Alonso’s results have been impressive, leading the league and contending in the Champions League. The team looks solid defensively and effective in attack, especially with Mbappe performing exceptionally and Bellingham returning to form. I believe Alonso is on a path to success.”

Despite a recent goalless draw against Rayo Vallecano and a 1-0 Champions League defeat to Liverpool at Anfield, the media have quickly adopted a crisis narrative. This is occurring even after a significant 2-1 victory over Barcelona in El Clasico and holding a three-point lead at the top of the La Liga table following 12 matches, along with a favorable position in the Champions League. Nonetheless, Alonso faces scrutiny, with questions regarding his tactical approach and management style, as reports indicate mixed opinions within the dressing room regarding his methods.

Reflecting on his future, Benzema, who will turn 38 next month, contemplated a coaching career after retirement. “I’m unsure. I have friends in coaching who discuss it with me, but it’s a challenging transition. Being a player and a coach may seem similar, but the pressures are different. It’s complex,” he stated. The French striker, whose contract with Al-Ittihad expires next summer, envisions continuing his playing career for another two years.