Real Madrid appear to have slipped into a spell of turbulence—both on the pitch and behind the scenes. What began as a slight dip in form has quickly turned into a worrying sequence of results, accompanied by whispers of discontent surrounding head coach Xabi Alonso. According to internal sources, the club is increasingly concerned after a run of disappointing performances that has caused friction among players and staff.
Reports from The Athletic suggest that a number of senior and influential players in the dressing room have grown uncomfortable with Alonso’s tactical approach and overall coaching philosophy. While the situation has not escalated into a crisis, several squad members have privately expressed doubts about the direction of the team. Nevertheless, relationships within the squad remain largely intact, and the club hierarchy is attempting to stabilise the atmosphere before matters deteriorate further.
The turning point in the current run came during the 1–1 draw against struggling Girona—a match Real Madrid were widely expected to win comfortably. It was their third consecutive league draw, following similar setbacks against Rayo Vallecano and Elche. This sequence has pushed Real Madrid down to second place, now one point behind their fierce rivals Barcelona. For a club that demands excellence, three consecutive matches without a victory has sparked legitimate concern.
All three draws came away from home, and players reportedly felt the toll of continuous travel, fatigue and mounting pressure. But the recent issues extend beyond physical tiredness; internal tensions have begun to surface. Although the situation remains under control, several individuals inside the club admit there is an uneasy environment that needs addressing urgently.
Interestingly, this is not the first time discontent has been reported. Back in October, rumours circulated that a few players were dissatisfied with Alonso’s personal manner and overarching football philosophy. This prompted a private meeting between the players and the coach, intended to clear the air. While stars such as Kylian Mbappé, Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga publicly denied any significant divisions, The Athletic insists certain players still feel unconvinced.
One insider told the publication, “It’s very clear this is not a coaching problem.” Another source was even more direct: “The issue isn’t Alonso. Trying to build a balanced side with Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham all needing freedom is almost impossible.” This view highlights a deeper tactical challenge—the squad’s attacking structure may simply not be compatible with Alonso’s preferred system.
There has also been acknowledgment within the coaching staff that shifting away from Carlo Ancelotti’s well-established methods was never going to be easy. The transition has been more complex than expected, and there is no instantaneous solution. Even so, Real Madrid’s leadership are not currently considering a managerial change. The upcoming fixture away to Athletic Bilbao has been described as “decisive” not merely for results, but for restoring confidence and the club’s public image.
Despite recent turbulence, there are still reasons for optimism. Under Alonso, Real Madrid have won 18 of their 25 matches so far, losing only three. His success with Bayer Leverkusen—guiding them to an unbeaten Bundesliga title last season—remains a testament to his managerial talent. As the season stretches ahead, all eyes will be on whether Alonso can recalibrate his tactics, rebuild unity and steer Real Madrid back into a strong title position.
