Despite Real Madrid leading LaLiga and staying comfortable in the Champions League, recent results have sparked concern. A 1-0 loss to Liverpool and a 0-0 draw against Rayo Vallecano have triggered talk of a “crisis” in the Spanish capital, with attention turning toward the dressing room.
According to Mundo Deportivo, sources close to the club claim that the relationship between Alonso and several players has grown tense. Vinícius, Bellingham, and Courtois have reportedly expressed frustration over tactical decisions, especially regarding the team’s buildup play. Others, such as Fede Valverde and Camavinga, feel uneasy about their constantly changing roles in the starting lineup.
Between a firm hand and Ancelotti’s style
The main issue seems to lie in the shift from Carlo Ancelotti’s player-friendly approach to Alonso’s stricter methodology. Ancelotti was known for his close bond with the squad and flexible training routines. In contrast, Alonso enforces total control, relying on detailed tactical sessions, video analysis, and even drones to monitor positioning and movement.
🔥¿ Quién es XABI ALONSO?
Un tipo que entendía el fútbol jugando cuando otros aún lo aprendían.
El que mandaba en el centro del campo, el que levantó un Mundial, dos Eurocopas, dos Champions y dejó su huella en Liverpool, Madrid y Bayern.Y cuando cambió el césped por el… pic.twitter.com/MKts0wh5Ay
— NoKai (@nokai) October 29, 2025
This more rigid system has faced pushback from a group long accustomed to emotional management. At Real Madrid, where egos coexist with constant pressure to win, a disconnect between coach and players can quickly escalate into a serious problem.
Even so, the board continues to trust him. Club president Florentino Pérez, who personally pushed for Alonso’s appointment, remains confident in his leadership. However, he is carefully monitoring the locker room’s atmosphere, knowing that internal fractures can grow fast if the team fails to deliver results.
Alonso’s challenge is balance. He must impose his tactical identity without breaking the chemistry of a star-studded roster. Real Madrid’s recent history shows that a “hardline” approach rarely succeeds at the Santiago Bernabéu. For now, the first crack in the locker room is visible, and only time will tell if Alonso can mend it before it becomes a major problem.
