Key Takeaways:
- On his first appearance since Hansi Flick’s ‘ego’ comments, Alonso emphasised unity to ensure success for Real Madrid
- Real Madrid have allowed the fewest big chances in La Liga (1) and have conceded just one goal across three fixtures
- Alonso confirmed the potential for switching to a back three remains open, given the squad’s depth in central defenders
Manager’s Perspective on Team Progress
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has urged supporters and analysts alike to maintain composure regarding his side’s encouraging early-season campaign. Los Blancos currently sit atop the league table, with Alonso advocating for further patience as the club continues its development process.
Alonso fielded questions concerning Hansi Flick’s recent remarks about the necessity for players to subordinate individual egos for the benefit of team achievement. Addressing Flick’s assertion that “egos kill success” Alonso responded: “We want to be successful, with human qualities, so that everyone feels in the boat, ready to pull in the same direction when necessary. We’re starting challenging blocks, and we need everyone pulling in the same direction.”
🚨🗣️ Xabi Alonso: “If everyone is fully committed and we’re healthy, then I’m pretty sure we will have a positive experience.” pic.twitter.com/IBEtBVbEDV
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) September 12, 2025
Statistical Focus: Defensive Solidity
Under Alonso’s guidance, Real Madrid have displayed significant improvement in their defensive setup. The side has allowed only one big chance in La Liga thus far and has conceded a single goal across the opening three matches. This disciplined approach has contributed significantly to their unbeaten run and current position at the league’s summit.
When asked to evaluate the team’s standing, Alonso remarked: “We’re still in the process of the journey currently. We want to keep changing things. Physically, we’re better, we’re getting back into the normal rhythm of playing every three days, and we need fresh players.”
Formation Choices: Back Three Remains an Option
Despite recent matches being contested with a back four, where Dean Huijsen has partnered Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao, Alonso admitted the option to employ a back three remains firmly within consideration. Reflecting on the use of a different defensive configuration during the Club World Cup, Alonso noted: “It was because the World Cup was a different context than it is now. We needed a game plan, not to build up to what we want now. It wasn’t three centre backs, it was one midfielder inserted there. I haven’t forgotten about it; we have five centre backs, so given the quality of the players, we can do it. The fact that it hasn’t happened in three games isn’t conclusive; there’s still a long way to go.”
