Real Madrid Stars Unhappy With Xabi Alonso! Strict Regiment Angers Players; Ex-Boss Ancelotti Chimes In
Cracks are beginning to show in Xabi Alonso's seemingly successful reign at Real Madrid, with reports emerging of player discontent over his strict management style. Despite leading Los Blancos to the top of La Liga, a growing number of players are reportedly unhappy with the drastic changes implemented since Carlo Ancelotti's departure.
According to Spanish media outlets, several players are struggling to adapt to Alonso's "aggressive disciplinarian approach". Unlike Ancelotti's more relaxed style, Alonso is said to be "controlling everything," employing methods such as intensive video analysis, drone surveillance during training, and in-depth tactical sessions. This has led to a feeling among some players that Alonso is "overly cold" and "doesn't understand them".
One of the major issues appears to be Alonso's interference in the players' personal lives. Reports suggest that he has banned players from taking holidays after matches, a stark contrast to the Ancelotti era when players were allegedly free to travel to Ibiza and even skip training. This newfound control has reportedly angered the players' entourages, who believe Alonso is unduly interfering in their personal lives.
Adding to the tension, some players are reportedly frustrated with Alonso's tactical decisions. During a recent 0-0 draw against Rayo Vallecano, visible disagreements arose on the pitch, highlighting a potential disconnect between the manager and certain players, including Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo. Furthermore, Alonso's decision to bring on Trent Alexander-Arnold during a match against Liverpool at Anfield, where the player was met with a hostile reception from his former fans, was questioned by some members of the squad, who felt it exposed the player to unnecessary animosity.
Several players who anticipated more playing time under Alonso are also reportedly disappointed. These include Andriy Lunin, Gonzalo Garcia, Fran Garcia, Endrick, and Dani Ceballos. Specifically, young Brazilian forward Endrick has yet to play a single minute for Real Madrid since mid-September, despite being fit, leading to speculation about a potential loan move in January.
Amidst the growing unrest, former Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has weighed in on the situation, offering support for his successor. Now managing the Brazilian national team, Ancelotti empathized with the pressure Alonso is facing, reminding everyone that "a draw at Real Madrid is the prelude to a crisis". He defended Alonso's early results, stating, "Madrid's results have been spectacular so far. What more can you ask for?". Ancelotti also touched on the situation of Rodrygo, who has struggled for form under Alonso, revealing that his own approach to helping the winger regain confidence was based on empathy.
It remains to be seen whether the Real Madrid players will adapt to Alonso's methods or if the manager will modify his approach. Club president Florentino Perez reportedly remains confident in Alonso, but the growing discontent within the dressing room could pose a significant challenge to the team's ambitions as the season progresses. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Alonso can regain the full support of his squad and maintain Real Madrid's position at the top of La Liga.
