Real Madrid Players Express Concerns Over Xabi Alonso’s Tactical Shift

A recent report from The Athletic has revealed that several players at Real Madrid feel constrained in their ability to express their natural styles since Xabi Alonso took over as head coach. The article suggests that the team’s environment has shifted to a more structured format compared to the more flexible approach of former manager Carlo Ancelotti. Senior players have reportedly voiced concerns that the new demands limit their creativity and improvisation on the pitch.

Alonso’s appointment on May 25, 2025 marked his return to Madrid as a club legend, following a successful tenure at Bayer Leverkusen. His vision for the team includes implementing a structured system that emphasizes precise pressing triggers and disciplined spacing. Early indicators show that while Madrid’s defense has improved under Alonso, there are emerging frustrations regarding the new tactical rigidity.

Transition from Ancelotti’s Flexibility to Alonso’s Structure

Under Ancelotti, Real Madrid thrived on a more fluid game plan, allowing players to make decisions in real time. This empowered stars to resolve challenges on the field spontaneously. In contrast, Alonso’s strategy leans towards a regimented approach, characterized by defined roles and strict rules about preparation. This philosophical shift has sparked some unease among players who are accustomed to a more liberated playing style.

Analysis of recent matches indicates that Alonso’s Madrid prioritizes control and positional play. The team has demonstrated strong defensive statistics, showcasing effective collective pressing and a significantly low expected goals against in the opening league matches. Such a tactical approach often minimizes chaotic encounters, favouring rehearsed movements over individual dribbling.

Despite these changes, creativity has not entirely vanished. Alonso has indicated a desire to harness his players’ flair while maintaining structure. He has expressed intentions to create an adaptable style that optimizes the contributions of star attackers through coordinated play.

Current Player Dynamics and Tactical Adjustments

The attacking lineup features prominent players, including Kylian Mbappé, who has been central to Alonso’s tactics, and Jude Bellingham, who plays a vital role in linking the attack. Vinícius Júnior remains an influential presence, although discussions around his minutes and role alongside Mbappé have surfaced. Rodrygo serves as a versatile forward, able to adapt his positioning based on the team’s needs.

In a recent match on October 26, 2025, Real Madrid faced Barcelona in a thrilling El Clásico. Mbappé and Bellingham scored in a 2-1 victory, with Vinícius playing a crucial role in the decisive moments. This match illustrated Alonso’s tactical framework, which combines structured pressing with the individual brilliance of key players.

Reports of discontent have emerged, particularly concerning Vinícius’ role and Alonso’s coaching style, which some liken to that of Pep Guardiola. While these reports are not officially confirmed, they reflect the complex dynamics within a team adapting to a new structure. Currently, Madrid leads the league table, suggesting that results may ease some of the reported tensions.

The restrictions players feel typically manifest in four key areas. Firstly, starting positions have become more defined, requiring wingers to maintain width or stay within specific lanes. This can be perceived as a limitation for players who thrive on freedom of movement. Secondly, the pressing strategy is choreographed, leading to fewer open-field engagements but potentially more valuable recoveries closer to the opponent’s goal.

Moreover, Alonso’s tactical framework emphasizes risk management through spacing. Fullbacks are instructed to either invert their positions or maintain defensive coverage, leading to rehearsed rotations that contrast with Ancelotti’s more spontaneous rhythm. Lastly, the allocation of playing time and positioning is often adjusted to accommodate star players like Mbappé, which can alter the dynamics for others such as Vinícius and Rodrygo.

Looking Ahead: Balancing Structure and Creativity

The evolution of frustration within a locker room is a gradual process. Alonso is likely to maintain his organized framework while also making small adjustments to accommodate his star players. Individual meetings may be held to clarify roles and address any concerns about substitution decisions.

Tactical innovations, such as asymmetric fullback positioning or the use of a narrow right winger, could allow for greater freedom for left-sided players without compromising the overall defensive structure. While the team continues to secure significant victories, the friction reported by The Athletic is plausible and not uncommon during transitions between player-driven and coach-led systems.

Real Madrid’s identity suggests that artistry is not lost but is instead being shaped by a new template. If Alonso can find the right balance between structure and individual expression, the team may continue to thrive both in performance and creativity as they aim for success throughout the season.