Real Madrid and Xabi Alonso get their first serious warning

Real Madrid has not been the same since its win in El Clasico, or at least the version that looked unstoppable. That team worked for each other, ran nonstop and controlled games from start to finish. At the start of the Xabi Alonso era, especially during the Club World Cup, the message was clear. Madrid was finally outrunning opponents, pressing harder than ever and winning the ball back near the opposing box.

All of that now feels like a distant memory. Just like last season, the comfortable cushion Madrid once held over its rivals has evaporated. The club is still sitting atop the LaLiga table, but the commanding margin is gone.

Internal concern grows for Real Madrid

Inside Valdebebas, team leaders point to that league position when the conversation turns to the squad’s current form. Still, no one denies that the bond between the players and the coaching staff has weakened. Some describe it as a disconnect that is now causing major concern among club executives.

The match against Elche, which ended in a 2-2 draw, was supposed to be a turning point. Inside the locker room and at the club level, it was framed as the moment to put all doubts to rest. There were meetings beforehand, expectations set and a clear plan to reestablish control. The test was failed by everyone, at least according to voices inside the club’s hierarchy.

The Elche goal that set off alarms

The second goal conceded has become the example of what cannot happen at Real Madrid. Álvaro Rodríguez, who still has contractual ties to the club, won the ball at midfield and then did as he pleased against five Madrid players. Not one of them put up real resistance. Around Valdebebas, that moment is described as a goal served on a silver platter.

Body language tells worrying story

What worries the club even more is the team’s posture and body language during games. It is surprising to see players known for their commitment drop their shoulders at the first sign of trouble. This is where the leadership side of Xabi Alonso as a coach must take center stage.

There is still time for things to return to normal, with the manager fully in command. However, Real Madrid’s standards and the expectations set for this season suggest the response needs to come soon. If not, doubt will become a constant companion on a journey that leads nowhere.