Real Madrid key backroom staff member stares at uncertain future amid debate over effectiveness | OneFootball

Real Madrid are on the verge of entering a new era under Xabi Alonso, and with it, significant changes are expected behind the scenes.

One of the key questions hanging in the air is the future of Antonio Pintus, the club’s current head of fitness, whose role has come under scrutiny this season.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Pintus, once considered untouchable for his contribution to Madrid’s conditioning, now finds himself at a crossroads.

His reputation, once bolstered by the team’s late-season physical surges, has been dented by the club’s ongoing injury crisis and a visible dip in physical performance during the final stretch of this campaign.

Discontent with his methods

While the debate over Pintus’ effectiveness has grown outside the club, what is more revealing is that even some voices within the Real Madrid camp have raised concerns.

Reports suggest that a number of players have grown frustrated with the constant muscular injuries and physical overload. Whether fair or not, this has led many to question if Pintus’ methods are outdated or ill-suited to the current squad dynamics.

Complicating matters is the anticipated arrival of Alonso, who is expected to bring along his own coaching staff, including his preferred fitness coach.

There is no clarity over Antonio Pintus’ future. (Photo by BENJAMIN CREMEL/AFP via Getty Images)

However, Pintus is not part of Carlo Ancelotti’s personal staff, meaning that, in theory, he doesn’t have to leave when the Italian does.

He is, instead, a direct employee of the club, currently serving not only as the fitness coach of the first team but also overseeing fitness methodology across all of Real Madrid’s teams.

What next for Real Madrid and Pintus?

So, while Pintus could technically remain at the club, the question remains: in what capacity? Will he be retained to oversee the broader fitness structure, relegated to working with the academy, or pushed out entirely?

It is not the first time Pintus has left Madrid. He previously departed in 2019 to join Inter Milan, so a repeat exit cannot be ruled out if Alonso opts for a total overhaul.

Meanwhile, according to the aforementioned outlet, someone who looks secure is goalkeeping coach Luis Llopis. His strong professional relationship with Alonso, forged during their time together at Real Sociedad, means he is likely to be part of the new project.