Real Madrid is facing one of the most turbulent periods in recent memory, both on and off the pitch. Following consecutive draws in LaLiga, the team has seen FC Barcelona close in on the top of the table, adding pressure to an already tense environment. Compounding the challenge, a shocking defeat in the Champions League against Liverpool has left the squad under scrutiny, raising questions about the leadership of head coach Xabi Alonso.

A Divided Squad

According to journalist Arancha Rodríguez on Spanish radio network COPE, Real Madrid’s dressing room is reportedly split into two opposing factions. A group of young players and regular starters has grown frustrated with Alonso’s tactical decisions and management style, creating a noticeable divide within the squad.

The players reportedly opposed to Alonso include:

• Vinicius Jr., who has clashed repeatedly with the coach in recent weeks
• Fede Valverde
• Eduardo Camavinga
• Rodrygo
• Brahim Díaz
• Endrick, the recent high-profile signing
• Ferland Mendy

This group, which blends emerging talents with established stars, is said to be dissatisfied with Alonso’s strategic approach, raising concerns about team cohesion ahead of crucial matches.

Conversely, another faction continues to stand firmly behind Alonso, providing him with crucial support during this turbulent period. Key players backing the coach include:

• Thibaut Courtois
• Dean Huijsen
• Álvaro Carreras
• Arda Güler
• Kylian Mbappé, whose influence as a superstar player lends substantial weight to Alonso’s authority

Tensions Reach the Fans

The internal discord has not gone unnoticed by the Real Madrid fanbase. On Tuesday morning, supporters demonstrated their frustration by hanging a banner at the club’s training ground reading: “Madrid wants peace and unity.” This visible plea from fans underscores the urgency for Alonso to stabilize the team and repair relationships within the squad.

Champions League Pressure

The timing of the dressing room tensions is particularly critical as Real Madrid prepares to face Olympiacos Piraeus in a decisive Champions League match. Beyond the implications for European qualification, the game represents an opportunity for Alonso and the squad to unify and show that they can overcome internal divisions. A victory would not only boost morale but also reinforce the coach’s position, while a defeat could escalate calls for leadership changes.

The Bigger Picture

Real Madrid’s current struggles highlight broader challenges for the club in the 2025-26 season. While the squad boasts immense talent across all positions, the inability to consistently convert possession and chances into victories has intensified scrutiny on Alonso. Analysts suggest that balancing the demands of high-profile stars with the ambitions of emerging talents is key to restoring harmony and achieving long-term success.

The situation also reflects a generational divide within the team. Younger players, eager for a more attacking, modern style, appear frustrated with Alonso’s tactical decisions, while established stars and high-profile newcomers continue to trust the coach’s approach. Successfully navigating these differing perspectives will be crucial to Real Madrid’s short- and long-term ambitions.

What’s Next for Xabi Alonso?

As Real Madrid heads into crucial fixtures in both domestic and European competitions, Xabi Alonso’s leadership is under the microscope. Every match is now not only a test of strategy and skill but also of authority and team unity. Fans, pundits, and club officials alike will be watching closely to see if the team can overcome internal divisions or if the ongoing discord will continue to threaten the club’s ambitions.

The Bernabéu may soon discover whether Alonso can rally the team and restore stability—or if the internal conflicts will force a reevaluation of the coaching position.