Beyond results – Xabi Alonso is haunted by challenges at Real Madrid left by his predecessor

Xabi Alonso’s arrival at Real Madrid sparked excitement, but the reality he faces is far from simple. 

While fans are anticipating and eager to see his “modern” style of football in action, Alonso is stepping into a dressing room filled with big personalities and old habits. 

His success at Leverkusen proved he can build a team around tactics and discipline, but Madrid is a different story. 

Here, egos are as powerful as talent, and some players are used to calling the shots rather than following instructions.

Alonso inherits a squad where certain stars enjoyed privileges under Carlo Ancelotti. These players often played regardless of form, creating a sense of entitlement. 

Now, Alonso is tasked with reshaping that culture. He can not rely on charm alone as he must enforce rules, demand effort, and expect players to buy into his system. 

This is where the real challenge begins. The technical side of coaching is only part of the job, and managing human behaviour in a squad full of strong-willed individuals is equally important.

Handling egos and maintaining control

Alonso cannot pick a player due to his stature. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Every decision Alonso makes is under scrutiny. Bench a star, and resistance appears – not always in words, but in body language, half-hearted effort, or tension with teammates. 

Take Federico Valverde, for example. While he did mention that there is no rift, which is somewhat true, the ego has been hurt.

Some players may question his authority silently, while others might push back openly. For Alonso, this is not just annoying, it is dangerous. 

If big egos interfere with training or match performance, the entire team suffers. Florentino Perez knows this, and the pressure to balance authority with diplomacy falls squarely on Alonso’s shoulders.

Modern football demands a clear system where each player has a role, and Alonso wants Madrid to operate like a well-oiled machine. 

But in a squad accustomed to flexibility for stars, fitting everyone into a cohesive plan is tricky. 

He has to reward performance, not status, and ensure that no player feels untouchable. It is a fine line which is too strict. If there is leniency, his system fails.

Need to keep everyone motivated

Alonso also faces another challenge of keeping his players motivated while integrating his ideas. Training, video sessions, and tactical briefings are only effective if players respect and follow him. 

The task for Alonso is more than just difficult. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

That means confronting the so-called settled players directly, making tough choices about the lineup, and sometimes leaving popular players on the bench to send a message. 

It is a test of leadership as much as coaching ability.

Real Madrid have thrived historically by adjusting systems to fit stars. But modern football has evolved. Every position, pass, and movement is calculated. 

Alonso’s vision demands discipline, and any hesitation or rebellion could cost the club both results and credibility. 

Success at Madrid will not only be measured by trophies but by his ability to reshape the dressing room culture and manage egos that have long influenced decisions.

In short, Xabi Alonso’s real challenge is off the pitch. Winning matches is one thing, but controlling a squad of stars, aligning them with his vision, and enforcing accountability is another. 

If he succeeds, Madrid could see a team that dominates tactically and mentally. If he fails, even the best strategies won’t be enough to overcome the influence of ego.