Xabi Alonso Emphasizes Patience as Real Madrid's Rebuilding Process Begins

Xabi Alonso, the newly appointed head coach of Real Madrid, has urged fans and stakeholders to exercise patience following the team's 1-1 draw against Al Hilal in their opening match of the Club World Cup on June 18, 2025, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. The draw highlighted the challenges Alonso faces as he embarks on a significant transformation of the squad, which he asserts will require time and careful implementation of his tactical vision.

In his post-match press conference, Alonso acknowledged the team's struggles during the first half, stating, "We lacked a lot of things, we didn’t have balance. We’ve talked about that" (ESPN, June 18, 2025). Young forward Gonzalo García initially put Madrid ahead in the 34th minute, but a penalty from Rúben Neves equalized for Al Hilal shortly after half-time. The match concluded with Madrid having a chance to reclaim the lead through a penalty; however, goalkeeper Yassine Bounou thwarted Federico Valverde's attempt, underscoring the need for improvement in high-pressure situations.

Alonso’s comments reflect a broader context of transition within the club, which has seen significant changes following a disappointing season where they failed to secure any major trophies. After succeeding Carlo Ancelotti, who had been the head coach for four years, Alonso's appointment signals a shift towards a new tactical approach. "I knew it would take time. There are things we have to change. We'll have to correct them, and we'll keep doing that," he remarked, emphasizing the necessity of patience (ESPN, June 18, 2025).

According to Thibaut Courtois, Real Madrid's goalkeeper, adapting to Alonso’s methods will not be instantaneous. "We were with Ancelotti for four years, we have some 'automatisms' and we have to change them to what the new coach wants. That doesn't happen in four days" (ESPN, June 18, 2025). This statement encapsulates the challenges of transitioning from one coaching philosophy to another, particularly within a club of Real Madrid's stature, where expectations are high for immediate results.

The impact of this transitional phase extends beyond tactical adjustments. As Real Madrid navigates this period, it also grapples with the absence of key players, including star forward Kylian Mbappé, who was sidelined due to illness during the match. Alonso expressed uncertainty regarding Mbappé's availability for the upcoming game against Pachuca, stating, "We’ll have to see how his recovery goes" (ESPN, June 18, 2025).

This period of transformation at Real Madrid is significant not only for the club’s immediate performance but also for its long-term strategy. The management's decision to hire Alonso reflects a belief in nurturing talent and adapting to contemporary football dynamics. As the team gears up for its next challenge, the focus will be on refining their play style and enhancing team cohesion, elements that are essential for success in both domestic and international competitions.

In conclusion, while the draw against Al Hilal may have highlighted the hurdles ahead, it also presents an opportunity for growth and learning under Alonso's guidance. The coming weeks will be crucial as Real Madrid seeks to establish a new identity while competing at the highest levels of football. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how quickly the team can adapt and evolve in the face of these challenges.