Xabi Alonso’s honeymoon period at Real Madrid appears to be over. After a blistering start to the season with 13 wins in 14 matches, a sudden dip in form has seen the club go winless in three consecutive games. This recent slump, culminating in a frustrating 2-2 draw with Elche, has undeniably cranked up the pressure on the legendary midfielder-turned-manager. While the team still sits atop La Liga, the demanding environment of the Bernabéu means questions are already being asked. Is this just a temporary blip, or is Alonso truly in a mess?

A Sudden Halt: The Winless Streak

The current situation stems from a trio of disappointing results. The run includes a tough 1-0 Champions League defeat to Liverpool, a goalless draw in the league against Rayo Vallecano, and the most recent draw with Elche on November 23rd. In that last match, it took a late Jude Bellingham equalizer to salvage a point. This sequence is a stark contrast to the team’s earlier dominance.

Consequently, Alonso finds himself navigating the first significant challenge of his tenure. He acknowledged the team’s frustration after the Elche game but was quick to praise their fighting spirit. “The team continues to compete,” Alonso stated. “We must persevere in the face of adversity. This is Real Madrid, we have to live with criticism.” His words highlight an awareness of the huge expectations that come with the job.

Managing a Star-Studded Squad

A key part of Alonso’s challenge involves managing a roster of world-class talent, which brings its own pressures. His recent decisions have been subject to intense scrutiny.

Benching Vinícius Jr.

One major talking point was the decision to bench Brazilian superstar Vinícius Jr. for the Elche match. Alonso addressed this directly, confirming he had spoken with the player beforehand. He explained that Vinícius understood the tactical reasoning for his role in that specific game. Managing high-profile players and their game time is a delicate balancing act, especially when results are not going to plan.

In contrast, Alonso has been vocal in his support for Trent Alexander-Arnold. The English defender has had a slow, injury-plagued start to his Real Madrid career. However, Alonso has publicly defended him, stating that the recent international break was crucial for his recovery. The manager confirmed Alexander-Arnold is now physically and mentally prepared to contribute, a vote of confidence that could be vital for the player.

The Weight of the Crown: Pressure and Perception

Managing Real Madrid is unlike any other job in world football. Alonso himself has spoken about the unique and immense pressure, stressing the need for emotional balance. “This is Madrid and we all know where we are,” he remarked after a previous draw. “It’s still November, there’s a long way to go.”

However, external observers are beginning to weigh in. Podcaster Kiyan Sobhani suggested that Alonso has “succumbed to the pressure” of the job. Sobhani believes the manager has moved away from the fluid ideas that brought early success, instead favouring a more rigid system. This external critique adds another layer to the narrative surrounding the club’s current form.

Despite the noise, Alonso remains pragmatic.

• He emphasizes self-criticism within the squad.
• He acknowledges that both results and performances could be better.
• Crucially, he insists the team’s spirit remains strong.

Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Alonso

To say Xabi Alonso is in a “mess” might be an overstatement, as Real Madrid still leads La Liga. However, he is undoubtedly facing his first true test as the club’s manager. The recent three-game winless streak has pierced the aura of invincibility built at the start of the season. His ability to navigate this pressure, manage his star players effectively, and return the team to winning ways will be a defining factor in his future. The coming matches are therefore critical. Alonso must prove he can handle the adversity that is simply part of the job at a club as demanding as Real Madrid.