Uncover Xabi Alonso's admission that Real Madrid is still "a work in progress" after their derby defeat. Learn what the coach...
Uncover Xabi Alonso's admission that Real Madrid is still "a work in progress" after their derby defeat. Learn what the coach had to say about the team's current state. After a shock 5-2 home defeat to Atletico Madrid Xabi Alonso let the headlines speak for themselves: "We didn't compete enough." The defeat not only broke Madrid's record of mighty defeats but also revealed the cracks that have been plaguing the club since the exit of Carlo Ancelotti and the turmoil of the last couple of seasons.
What went wrong on the pitch?
Poor start, poor cohesion - The Los Blancos had fallen behind early and never recovered. Alonso's own words echo how they "didn't start well" and "didn't play well either collectively or in terms of quality of play."
Intensity & quality gaps - the speed of counter-attacking and technical skill of the players of Athletico found gaps in the defense structure of Madrid. With players such as Robin Le Normand, Alexander Sorloth, Julian Alvarez and Antoine Griezmann on the winning side, quality was a dead give away.
Key moments squandered - Despite an early goal from Kylian Mbappes and a late heroics from Arda Guulers, Madrid's "building phase" was not even close to finished. The "first defeat" under Alonso underlined the need for more robust and high-tempo football.
The broader context
A season of transition - Madrid's squad has been reshuffled - new signings, a mixture of youth and experience, a new tactical identity. Alonso's comment that they're still "building" indicates the fact that this isn't a one-off defeat but a sign of growing pains.
Stability vs. performance - Although the leadership of the club has been lauded for buying stability, the results on the field remain lackluster. The derby defeat is a wake-up call: the hope of a blank sheet and the ambition to be supreme in the home.
Fan expectations - Real Madrid fans expect Champions League pedigree; 5-2 loss to a rival puts the pressure back on Alonso and his coaching staff.
What's next?
Refine tactics - Alonso will likely try to tighten up defensive organization and increase the intensity of the team coming from kickoff. Tactical tweaks, or midfield transitions in particular, can be the difference between a good and great season.
Player integration - The "building phase" is more than just about tactics; it's about getting the new signings - be that the depth in the midfield, or the striking options - into a cohesive unit.
Mental resilience** - The ability to overcome a heavy derby defeat will test the psychological hardiness of the squad. A big response could cement Alonso's reputation as a coach who can handle big clubs.
In short, the 5-2 defeat was a cold reminder that Real Madrid's path to reclaim their former glories is yet underway. The "work in progress" comment from Xabi Alonso is a frank admission of the challenge that lies ahead - and a sign that the team will have to rally quickly to be back on track in the Spanish Championship and beyond.