Is Xabi Alonso’s Time Up at Real Madrid? – Football Weekly Extra
Xabi Alonso, who was appointed as Real Madrid's head coach in June 2025, is reportedly under increasing pressure to keep his job, despite an initially promising start. After replacing Carlo Ancelotti with considerable fanfare, Alonso, previously a celebrated player for the club, now faces the possibility of an early exit.
Alonso's arrival at Real Madrid was highly anticipated, largely due to his outstanding achievements with Bayer Leverkusen. He guided the German club to their first-ever Bundesliga title in an undefeated season, also securing the DFB-Pokal and reaching the Europa League final. This success made him one of the most sought-after young managers in European football.
His tenure began brightly, leading Real Madrid to the Club World Cup semi-finals shortly after his appointment and establishing an early lead in La Liga and the Champions League group stage. However, a significant dip in form during November and early December has put him under scrutiny.
Several factors contribute to Alonso's current predicament. A recent defeat to Celta Vigo and a loss to Manchester City in the Champions League have intensified doubts about his leadership. According to reports, the defeat against Pep Guardiola's Manchester City was a critical test, and the 2-1 loss has further jeopardized his position. It's now being reported that if Real Madrid fails to win their next game against Alaves, Alonso will be sacked.
Beyond results, there are reports of dressing room unrest and player dissatisfaction with Alonso's tactical approach. Some players reportedly found Alonso's tactical demands too rigid, preferring Ancelotti's more player-friendly approach. Also, while Alonso's hands-on coaching style was well-received at Bayer Leverkusen, it has not been as successful at Real Madrid. Sources indicate that some senior players feel he is trying too hard to emulate Pep Guardiola, without yet having the experience or track record to justify such an approach.
Real Madrid is already considering potential replacements for Alonso. Among the names mentioned are Alvaro Arbeloa, the current coach of Real Madrid Castilla, and Santiago Solari, Real Madrid's Director of Professional Football, as possible interim options. Both are familiar with the club and could provide stability. Zinedine Zidane, who has had previous success as Real Madrid's manager, has also been mentioned, though reports suggest he is focused on managing the French national team after the 2026 World Cup. Jurgen Klopp, currently working with Red Bull, is another name linked to the job, although his return to club management seems unlikely.
Arbeloa is seen as a realistic option, particularly if a mid-season change is necessary. He is well-regarded by President Florentino Perez and deeply embedded in the club's culture. However, he lacks experience at the highest level.
The coming days are crucial for Xabi Alonso. With upcoming matches against Alaves, Talavera de la Reina in the Copa del Rey, and Sevilla in La Liga, he has a limited time to demonstrate a turnaround. Failure to improve results and address the apparent discontent within the squad could lead to his dismissal. The situation remains fluid, but the pressure is undoubtedly mounting on the former midfield maestro as he navigates this challenging period at the helm of Real Madrid.
