In a surprising move, Real Madrid has embraced a radical change in its tactical approach with the return of the new coach, without immediately disclosing the details of the decision. However, what this plan entails could completely transform the course of the season.
Now, with Xabi Alonso back from his vacation, he intends to meet directly and openly with the players, armed with a decisive message: “If you don’t participate in defense and pressing, this project won’t succeed.” This message is strongly backed by Florentino Pérez’s administration. Moving away from individual excuses is the foundation of this new strategy.
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After a disappointing season, Alonso believes the break provided an opportunity to reset the team’s course. Now, he and the club president have turned a new page aimed at restoring Real Madrid’s dominant image. However, the real key lies in how the players respond to these defensive and tactical demands.
The former coach, Carlo Ancelotti, is no longer the point of reference. In his place, the Spanish coach has stepped in with his legendary personality and clear, pragmatic expectations, emphasizing collective participation in defense and consistent pressing. In this new era, individual brilliance alone is no longer sufficient.
Paris Saint-Germain demonstrated the effectiveness of a comprehensive defense-to-attack system, and this is precisely what Real Madrid now aspires to replicate. Alonso revealed his ambition during a press conference, stating that everyone must contribute to correcting mistakes, increasing intensity, and improving positional discipline in the opponent’s half.
The ultimate message is clear: Real Madrid is entering a new era under Alonso, where there is no room for relying solely on talent. Anyone who wants to shine must prove it consistently—both defensively and offensively—otherwise, it simply won’t work.
