‘Too much’ – Real Madrid players not enjoying change under Alonso

Real Madrid head into El Clasico top of the table against Barcelona, with a two-point advantage over their rivals. Los Blancos have been consistent and defensively effective, but less convincing going forward, and still have the damaging derby defeat to Atletico Madrid to put behind them.

It is a radically different side to the one that Carlo Ancelotti left last season though. Without the ball, Real Madrid are defending much higher up the pitch and pressing more agressively. Yet with the ball, Real Madrid have struggled to break down defences at time, often relying on moments of brilliance from Kylian Mbappe.

Change of approach under Xabi Alonso

Speaking on Cadena SER, Anton Meana has explained that Alonso is a very methodical manager, who speaks to his players a lot, albeit without overdoing it. The Basque manager is direct and comfortable taking difficult decisions, and has communicated to players that they will be on the bench well in advance of the final tactical briefing.

Real Madrid players struggling with video analysis

However there is one aspect of his methodology that Alonso’s players are struggling with. The squad has complained of too much video analysis, with the coaching staff showing the players videos every day during their preparation, and they tend to be very long, something that has gone down less well in the dressing room.

Test to come in El Clasico

The one main outstanding issue that Alonso must address is Real Madrid’s performances in big games. Although they managed a victory over Juventus, the Bianconeri created several clear openings, and the two defeats Alonso has suffered came in dramatic fashion against Paris Saint-Germain and Atletico Madrid. In both games, Real Madrid’s press was surpassed with ease, and their own play through midfield struggled.