Xabi Alonso’s Departure from Real Madrid: A Turning Point for Key Players

On January 12, 2026, Real Madrid announced the departure of head coach Xabi Alonso, marking a notable change within the club. His tenure was met with mixed results, despite an impressive start, winning 17 out of 20 matches. Recent performances have, however, been subpar, prompting the club to seek a new direction.

According to a report by The Athletic, key players Vinícius Júnior, Federico Valverde, and Jude Bellingham encountered difficulties with Alonso’s tactical approach and management style. Notably, tensions escalated after a match against FC Barcelona in October 2025, where a disagreement arose between Alonso and Vinícius following a substitution. Vinícius’s refusal to shake Alonso’s hand after being substituted highlighted the growing rift, and the lack of disciplinary action from the club seemingly undermined Alonso’s authority.

The report further suggests that both Valverde and Bellingham experienced similar challenges under Alonso, impacting their performance on the field. Bellingham, who had a stellar first season in 2023-24, has struggled to maintain his form and secure a consistent starting position in midfield this campaign, a stark contrast to his earlier prominence under former coach Carlo Ancelotti. Meanwhile, Valverde’s versatility has inadvertently led to him being shifted across various positions, preventing him from establishing himself in his preferred midfield role.

Alonso’s amicable exit could pave the way for a revitalized environment at Real Madrid, as the players adapt to new strategies and a fresh coaching philosophy.