Real Madrid's New Era: Can Xabi Alonso Conquer the Bernabéu?
Xabi Alonso's project at Real Madrid has officially begun, following an intriguing appetizer at the recent Club World Cup. Both the club and its fans have high hopes for the former midfielder, anticipating his hunger, professional ambition, youthfulness, and didactic approach. Alonso aims to prove that his tactical methods, successful at Leverkusen, can translate to the colossal stage of Real Madrid.
He's aware that he'll be under intense scrutiny, much like his Spanish predecessors, Rafa Benítez and Lopetegui. However, the pressure doesn't seem to faze this 'metronome,' who, even as a player, possessed a privileged footballing brain.
The faces of the 22 first-team players at Valdebebas reflected both the eagerness to redeem themselves after a lackluster season (marked only by the European Super Cup and Intercontinental Cup) and the responsibility to meet the demands of their new 'boss.' Real Madrid boasts a strong squad, though the absence of Kroos or Modric might be felt. The players must forge a collective commitment to pursue La Liga and the Champions League, the two primary objectives.
Alonso's Challenge: Rebuilding After the PSG Debacle
After Real Madrid's 4-0 defeat to PSG in the Club World Cup semi-finals, Alonso immediately sought to reset the narrative. He emphasized that the tournament and the Parisian thrashing marked the end of the previous season, with a clean slate awaiting them after the summer break. This message was repeated multiple times, signaling his desire to start afresh.
The month of training, matches, and team bonding revealed glimpses of progress, including periods of high pressing, energy, and tighter lines. However, the reigning European champions brutally exposed their vulnerabilities. The defeat in New Jersey underscored the need for Alonso to perform intricate surgery and make fundamental decisions to rebuild a team that, just a year ago, seemed invincible but quickly proved fragile.
Key Absences and New Additions
Pre-season training commenced recently, just weeks before their league opener against Osasuna. Álvaro Carreras has joined the squad, Camavinga has returned, and Franco Mastantuono is set to arrive soon. Endrick, Bellingham, and Mendy are currently sidelined with injuries. The departures of Luka Modric and Lucas Vázquez further exacerbate the loss of experienced veterans and leaders, a concern previously raised by Carlo Ancelotti.
Xabi Alonso faces a monumental task in revitalizing Real Madrid, requiring both tactical acumen and astute man-management to guide the team back to its former glory.