Soccer coach giving instructions to his players during an outdoor practice
Xabi Alonso's methods that have renewed Real Madrid | Camara Real Madrid
FIRST TEAM

Xabi Alonso shakes up Real Madrid with a new work methodology

Xabi Alonso has implemented new ways of working that are different from Ancelotti's

by

Sergio Iglesias

Xabi Alonso is marking a turning point in Real Madrid's dynamics since his arrival on the bench. According to information revealed today by journalist Álvaro Esteban, the Basque coach has implemented a radical change in the club's preparation methods. His idea: adapt those strategies that led him to success at Bayer Leverkusen, Bundesliga champion.

One of the most notable changes is the earlier arrival of the players, who now must show up sooner to undergo various medical and physical tests. This measure reflects Xabi Alonso's approach to soccer in which every player is in optimal condition before stepping onto the field.

Two people wearing Real Madrid training gear are on a soccer field; one is wearing a blue jersey and a cap, the other a white jersey, and both seem focused on the conversation or on observing the training session.
Xabi Alonso has changed some of Ancelotti's methods | Real Madrid Confidencial

In addition, the training sessions have become longer and more intense, echoing his methodology in Germany. There, the native of Tolosa used videos and drone recordings to analyze and perfect tactics, a system that is already underway at Valdebebas. In fact, even Álvaro Arbeloa himself, Castilla's coach and a close friend of Xabi Alonso, has chosen to follow the same guidelines.

A season full of changes at Real Madrid

Another significant adjustment is the decision to announce the line-ups 75 minutes before the matches. Previously, "Real Madrid TV" provided Real Madrid's starting eleven two hours in advance, causing little surprise and reaction among opponents.

Likewise, the coach has introduced a broader rotation in the squad, seeking to keep its stars fresh. Xabi Alonso also wants to give opportunities to the youth academy players. The clearest example is Thiago Pitarch, who has been drafted three times in a row after his good preseason.

Soccer coach gives instructions to a player who is lifting his jersey while another team member watches from the bench.
Xabi Alonso trusts the youngest players | Real Madrid Confidencial

Xabi Alonso's goal is to return Real Madrid to the top of European soccer in a year when the team is competing for every possible title. The methods, which combine physical rigor, technological analysis, and tactical flexibility, could be the key to a new cycle of success at Chamartín.

Of course, nobody can say that its changes are going badly. The team showed a good face at the Club World Cup and has started its journey in LaLiga in the best possible way.

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