Spanish legends rally behind Real Madrid manager amid difficult times – ‘It’s not easy but…’ | OneFootball

The pressure surrounding Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid continues to intensify, with every performance now dissected in detail. 

Alonso’s long-held ambition of managing Los Blancos was meant to be a crowning moment in his coaching journey, but the reality so far has been far more demanding than expected.

Real Madrid’s football this season has struggled to fully convince the Santiago Bernabeu crowd. 

While results have kept the team competitive, the overall performance level has drawn criticism. 

In truth, if not for the consistent goals of Kylian Mbappe, the scrutiny on Alonso could have been even harsher.

Fabregas analyses the struggle

The latest voice to weigh in on Alonso’s situation is Cesc Fabregas, currently in charge of Como. 

Speaking in a new documentary produced by DAZN (h/t Mundo Deportivo), Fabregas offered a revealing insight into the core issue Alonso is facing at Valdebebas. 

The former midfielder highlighted the sheer quality and ego present in the Real Madrid squad.

“They are all very good. They all deserve to play. They all think they have to play. 

Alonso has the backing of Spanish legends. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“They all have to make a difference. They all cost €50 million. They all play for their national teams,” said the Catalan in the documentary.

Fabregas then underlined why this situation is so complex for any coach, especially one still establishing himself at a club like Madrid. 

“Dealing with this is surely the most difficult thing of all,” he noted.

Spanish greats assess

The similar sentiments were echoed by Pepe Reina, another former Spain international who knows Alonso well from their time together. 

Reina focused more on Alonso’s character and honesty when handling difficult conversations inside the dressing room.

“It’s not easy, especially in a dressing room like this. But Xabi has no problem looking you in the eye and telling you how it is,” he made clear.

Finally, experienced coach Rafa Benitez also came to Alonso’s defence, expressing confidence in his ability to manage such a demanding environment.

“I think Xabi Alonso has the ability to manage the dressing room, no question about it,” Benítez said.