Alonso Under Fire: Real Madrid’s Future Hangs in the Balance as Pressure Mounts

Current mood inside Real Madrid as Alonso's future hangs in the balance

Real Madrid are in a state of cautious anticipation and debate about the future of their current coach, Xabi Alonso, who took charge last summer on a three-year contract, praised for refreshing methods after the Carlo Ancelotti era.

His start wasn't ideal: he faced a harsh reality in his first real test, suffering a 0-4 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup semi-final, a result that stunned fans and analysts alike.

Despite solid domestic league and Champions League performances, the overall display failed to convince, fueling rumors about the coach's tenure. On the eve of El Clasico, whispers suggested that any loss to Barcelona could be a point of no return for Alonso.

Inside the club: doubts, dynamics, and the road ahead

The win in the Clasico briefly restored confidence, but momentum faded after stumbles against Liverpool and Rayo Vallecano, reviving doubts about his ability to steer the side through tough spells, according to Mundo Deportivo.

Within the club corridors, despite public support, leaks suggested discontent among senior figures over controversial tactical decisions, such as substituting Vinícius in the Clasico.

There are signs his relations with key players like Valverde, Bellingham, Rodrygo, and Endrick are not perfectly aligned, signaling incomplete harmony with his approach.

The club is eager to see a clear improvement in results to quiet the noise, but insiders say the December 10th clash with Manchester City could prove decisive for Alonso's fate.

Philosophy and Real Madrid's values

During the opening of the 2025/2026 academic year at Real Madrid's City of Studies and Higher Education, Alonso spoke about his career as a player and coach, underscoring the values he learned at Madrid.

"We must respect Real Madrid's history and how this great club is built, while striving for excellence and recognizing the effort across all levels—not just on the pitch," he said.

"Everything here must be connected and cohesive; at Real Madrid things are not done halfway, and that is essential to understand," he added.

Choosing coaching and the love for the game

On why he chose to coach the first team, Alonso said, "I was lucky to discover my passion for football early; once you choose it, you must be prepared to pay the price—through hard work and commitment."

He added, "Give your all—from grabbing opportunities to continuous self-improvement. You must stay steady and uphold the work ethic that was instilled in you from a young age."

He admitted that his drive to coach stems from curiosity about the game: "Now I'm a coach, but the best part is the game itself. I sometimes envy the players—healthy envy that pushes you to understand the game from within."

Starting gradual, a learning path

Alonso noted that his stint with Real Madrid Castilla helped him grow step by step: "I wanted to learn and develop gradually until I reached the first team."

"My university experience at Liverpool taught me to listen more than talk, and to value consistency and courage, as well as meeting people from all over the world. Perhaps I wouldn't be here without that experience as a player."

Perez's future and Real Madrid's long-term plans

News over the past days spoke of Florentino Perez, Real Madrid's president, possibly stepping down next year, even though his current term runs through 2028.

According to Onda Cero and journalist Alberto Pereiro, Perez does not plan to depart before his term ends, and will address questions about his future at the club's general assembly scheduled for November 23. The discussion about the club's membership model is expected in 2025, not 2026, contradicting rumors.

Spanish journalist Pepe Álvarez stirred debate by tweeting that Perez decided to leave in 2025 and is already organizing a smooth succession, regardless of the referendum results.

All this comes as Real Madrid navigates a sensitive period on and off the pitch, especially with ambitious projects led by Perez, notably the Santiago Bernabéu redevelopment, which he calls the backbone of the "Madrid future."

While the club has not issued an official denial or confirmation, Perez's focus on a long-term project and his ongoing talk of preparing a new generation of leaders fuels speculation about a historic leadership change in coming years.

Punchline 1: If Alonso can’t steer the ship, at least he can navigate the press conferences—they’re the only place where questions are asked and the answers come with extra salt.

Punchline 2: And if all else fails, Real Madrid can always switch to blue and white confetti—because who doesn’t love a dramatic finale when the season needs it?