Can Xabi Alonso Rebuild Real Madrid into Europe’s Greatest Force?
The winds of change are blowing at the Santiago Bernabéu. As Carlo Ancelotti’s tenure nears its end, Xabi Alonso has emerged as a strong candidate to take over the helm of Real Madrid.
The former Madrid midfielder has transformed Bayer Leverkusen into a powerhouse, guiding them to their first-ever unbeaten Bundesliga title—a feat that has sent shockwaves through European football. But can Alonso replicate that magic in Madrid and restore them as Europe’s top team?
A Tactical Mastermind at Leverkusen
Alonso’s success with Leverkusen is rooted in his tactical intelligence. His primary system—a dynamic and adaptable 3-4-2-1 formation—emphasizes proactive play both with and without the ball. The midfield becomes the central battleground, where compact triangles allow for quick, complex passing sequences.
His teams control the tempo and patiently construct attacks, often using direct, early balls toward the forward line. Wing-backs play a critical role, providing width and acting almost like additional forwards.
Defensively, Alonso’s teams are highly organized. They execute a coordinated pressing system that activates when opponents enter dangerous areas. Midfielders and wingers drop deep to help form a compact, impenetrable block. The counter-press is another key weapon, allowing quick ball recovery high up the pitch.
Alonso’s flexibility is central to his coaching style. He has used 4-3-3 and 3-4-3 formations in the past, adapting his tactics based on the opposition and available players—an approach that will serve him well with Real Madrid’s diverse squad.
Fitting Real Madrid Into Alonso’s Vision
Despite setbacks in the Copa del Rey and Champions League, Real Madrid boasts a squad full of world-class talent. Alonso’s challenge will be integrating that talent into his philosophy.
Given his background as a midfield maestro, Alonso will likely prioritize control and tactical discipline in the middle of the park. Players like Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, and Jude Bellingham possess the blend of athleticism and technical prowess to thrive under him.
Bellingham, in particular, could flourish in an advanced midfield role in Alonso’s 3-4-2-1 system—similar to how Florian Wirtz has thrived under Alonso at Leverkusen.
When it comes to wing-backs, Madrid’s current full-backs might need to adapt to more attack-oriented roles. While they bring experience, Alonso’s system demands offensive contributions from wide players, opening up new creative possibilities.
Up front, Alonso will have an array of options. Kylian Mbappé (if he arrives), Vinícius Júnior, and Rodrygo (despite rumors of his desire to leave) offer speed, flair, and versatility. Alonso’s fluid systems can allow this trio to interchange and create chaos for defenders.
Challenges Ahead for Alonso
However, the road ahead won’t be easy. Under Ancelotti, Madrid often relied on moments of individual brilliance and rapid transitions. A shift to Alonso’s structured, possession-heavy approach will require time, adaptation, and possibly patience from fans and players alike.
Managing Real Madrid also comes with immense pressure—far more intense than at Leverkusen. While Alonso has shown calm under pressure, the expectations at the Bernabéu are relentless, and the margin for error is slim.
Still, Alonso’s tactical acumen, flexibility, and deep understanding of Madrid’s culture make him a strong contender to usher in a new era of dominance.
Is Now the Right Time?
Whether Alonso is ready for such a monumental challenge remains an open question. But truthfully, no manager ever takes the Madrid job without facing that same scrutiny.
His journey—through Real Sociedad B and then Leverkusen—shows a thoughtful career path and a patient approach to building experience. Compared to when Zidane took over, Alonso appears more seasoned and tactically mature.
His past as a Madrid legend and the fact that he left the club respectfully only strengthen his case. The players will surely respect him, and he seems equipped to handle the unique environment that comes with managing Los Blancos.
While immediate success isn’t guaranteed, Alonso could well surprise everyone—either by building steadily or by winning big from day one. One thing is certain: all eyes will be on him.
According to several sources, the 43-year-old Spanish coach is expected to inform Bayer Leverkusen of his decision soon, with no major obstacles standing in the way of a move. Meanwhile, Carlo Ancelotti’s future with the Brazilian national team is reportedly becoming clearer.
It’s also worth noting that Alonso, who led Leverkusen to an undefeated Bundesliga title in the 2023/24 season, currently has his team in second place with 67 points as the Bundesliga enters its 31st week.
