The Challenging Terrain of Real Madrid Management
Miguel L. Pereira, a renowned football writer, has a wealth of insights into the world of Spanish football, available on his social media and in his book. One of the most pivotal aspects of his work is the in-depth exploration of Real Madrid’s unique managerial challenges. Becoming the manager of Real Madrid is akin to stepping into a minefield. The club, one of the most prestigious in the world, demands not only constant victories but also a seamless blend of leadership, tactical acumen, and the ability to navigate the complex dynamics of a star-studded dressing room. Xabi Alonso, a former Real Madrid player turned manager, is beginning to grasp the enormity of this challenge, despite being well-prepared for it.
Real Madrid: A Club Defined by Players, Not Managers
Real Madrid’s ethos is deeply rooted in the legacy of its players. The club was built by Santiago Bernabeu, a former player and chairman, and further shaped by the iconic Alfredo di Stefano. Their influence emphasized the importance of grit, character, and a winning mentality, which the Chamartin crowd has embraced. Unlike other clubs, Real Madrid has never truly embraced the idea of a manager as a visionary leader. Instead, the club has often seen managers as necessary figures whose primary role is to support and facilitate the talents of the players. This is in stark contrast to clubs like Atletico Madrid, which has been profoundly shaped by managers like Luis Aragones and Diego Simeone, or Barcelona, which was transformed by Johan Cruyff.
The Role of Managers at Real Madrid
Throughout its history, Real Madrid has hired a variety of managers, from pragmatic tacticians like Fabio Capello to more romantic figures like Jorge Valdano. However, the club has always preferred fatherly figures who prioritize the well-being and expression of the players. Managers like Luis Molowny and Vicente del Bosque were celebrated for their ability to create a harmonious dressing room environment and their tactical prowess. Even more recent managers, such as Zinedine Zidane and Carlo Ancelotti, succeeded because they understood their place in the club’s hierarchy and were beloved by the players. When managers like Rafael Benitez, Julen Lopetegui, or Santiago Solari tried to impose their personal visions, the results were often disastrous.
The Pressure on Xabi Alonso
Xabi Alonso, a football fanatic with deep knowledge of the club, was well aware of the challenges he faced when he accepted the job. Despite this, he might have been enticed by promises of support and control over the transfer market. However, the realities of managing Real Madrid have quickly set in. Despite leading the league and winning the Clasico, Alonso has faced calls for his sacking. The team’s performance has been inconsistent, and key positions remain undermanned. Alonso’s early imprint on the team, visible during the Club World Cup, has faded. The side has become overly dependent on Kylian Mbappe’s goals and Thibaut Courtois’ goalkeeping, reflecting little change from the Ancelotti era.
The Power Dynamics in the Dressing Room
The challenges Alonso faces extend beyond tactical and performance issues. Real Madrid’s dressing room has a history of sacking managers. From Manuel Fleitas Solich to the Galacticos era under Florentino Perez, players have often held significant influence over managerial decisions. Alonso’s decision to include Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior in key roles, despite their inconsistencies, highlights the need to balance his tactical vision with the power struggles within the club. Vinicius, in particular, has become a toxic presence, struggling to recapture his form after losing the Ballon d’Or. His public persona and the club’s failure to reinforce his role have affected his performance, making it difficult for Alonso to integrate him into his tactical scheme.
Navigating the Future
Despite the challenges, Alonso remains determined. He understands the unique dynamics of Real Madrid and the expectations placed upon him. While his job may not be in immediate danger, the club’s history suggests that managers who try to impose their vision are often met with resistance. Alonso must navigate the delicate balance between his tactical ideas and the powerful egos in the dressing room. Only time will tell if he can succeed where others have failed, but one thing is certain: Real Madrid is a club where managers are a necessity, not the stars of the show.
