Three Key Problems Xabi Alonso Must Solve at Real Madrid To Succeed

From Tactical Shifts to Mbappe-Vinicius Harmony, Alonso Will Have To Face Major Challenges.

Xabi Alonso is set to return to Real Madrid in a mind-blowing manner as the head coach of the club from the coming season. He is coming to the club with an amazing record of leading Bayer Leverkusen to their first Bundesliga title. The club hasn’t officially announced the Spaniard’s arrival.

However, their current manager, Carlo Ancelotti’s departure has already been announced. Brazil’s CBF has confirmed Carlo Ancelotti will join their national team on May 26. With that news, Alonso is expected to take charge in June, taking control of the club from the FIFA Club World Cup.

🚨🤍 Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid, here we go! Story confirmed and deal sealed for Xabi as new manager until 2028.

Staff sorted, contract in place and three year deal for Alonso with Real planning for him to start at FIFA Club World Cup.

Ancelotti farewell soon, then Xabi era. 🎞️ pic.twitter.com/s6jY4DzZmx
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 12, 2025

1. Defensive Restructuring and System Fit

One of Alonso’s biggest decisions will be whether to retain the club’s current formation or roll with the one he used so effectively at Leverkusen. However, it’s important to note that Alonso will face a lot of difficulties replicating this system at Madrid due to personnel constraints.

Xabi Alonso has already conveyed the message of the new players he will need as he takes on the job. However, with the current squad he has at his hands, he won’t be able to implement his visions properly. Additionally, Real Madrid have hugely struggled with injuries in defence this season.

David Alaba and Eder Militao both suffered serious setbacks. Los Blancos had gone most of the season missing several players at the back at times. Hence, feinforcements will be essential. And it seems Madrid are moving fast as players like Cristian Romero and Jonathan Tah have already been linked.

Also Read: Three Key Challenges Carlo Ancelotti Will Have To Address To Revive Brazil’s World Cup Dreams

2. Mbappe-Vinicius Balance and Attack Configuration

Alonso also needs to find a way to maximize the attacking partnership of Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. They are two of the world’s most explosive forwards playing together at a club like Real Madrid with a huge number of support from extremely talented players at all positions. However, they’re yet to consistently click together.

Mbappe has had 27 La Liga goals in his debut season. Meanwhile Vinicius had been The Best FIFA Men’s Player for 2024. Hence, if used correctly, they have the potential to become an unstoppable duo. Alonso’s preferred two-striker system could be key here. It could finally unleash their combined potential.

Also Read: Carlo Ancelotti Set To Join Brazil National Team, Real Madrid Exit Date Revealed

3. Midfield & Squad Integration

A crucial part of Alonso’s setup will involve a dynamic midfield pivot. Tchouameni and Camavinga can offer energy. However, concerns over injuries and consistency persist. Whether Alonso goes for players like Ederson or Exequiel Palacios remains to be seen, but he will need to add a reliable No. 8. Additionally, Real Madrid’s transfer market priorities include a new left-back.

Especially to complement the already-signed Trent Alexander-Arnold on the right. Names like Destiny Udogie and Theo Hernandez have emerged as possible solutions. Alonso’s tactical flexibility and sharp football IQ are undeniable. But at Real Madrid, the stakes are always high and solving these core issues will define his early tenure at the Bernabeu.

Real Madrid

Xabi Alonso

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.