In recent European football, one of the most talked-about managers is undoubtedly Xabi Alonso. Renowned as an outstanding midfielder during his playing days, he's now exceeding expectations as a manager, drawing the attention of many top clubs. In particular, his remarkable achievements with Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga have sparked discussions on whether he's ready to manage a top-tier club like Real Madrid.
Alonso's achievements with Leverkusen are indeed remarkable. He took charge at a time when the team had only one win in their first eight matches and was sitting in 17th place during the early 2022-23 season. In just 18 months, he led his team to an unprecedented domestic undefeated season, a cup victory, and a European final. This was his first official season as a manager, highlighting his exceptional leadership and tactical insight.
From a tactical perspective, Alonso is known for his emphasis on rigid organization, swift counter-pressing, and advancing the ball through intricate pattern play. He frequently employs a three-man defense system with various formations, preferring the 'La Volpeian' strategy of situating a defensive midfielder between two center-backs to maintain numerical superiority in midfield. His attacking strategy relies on high ball possession to unsettle opponents and gain superiority in various midfield zones. Furthermore, upon losing possession, he employs an immediate high press to swiftly regain control, showcasing a bold approach. Such tactical prowess significantly improved Leverkusen's defensive stability and resilience, reducing effective shooting opportunities for the opponents.
However, managing a big club like Real Madrid, which operates under a 'Galactico' policy, requires more than just exceptional tactical skills. Real Madrid, holder of numerous UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles, imposes unimaginable pressure and expectations on its managers. Here, charismatic leadership and the ability to effectively manage a roster full of superstars are as essential as tactical depth.
While the role may be a dream for any manager, it's also a challenging environment where young managers can quickly falter. Unlike Carlo Ancelotti, who preferred to compensate for defensive shortcomings with fluid attacking play and relying on individual brilliance, Alonso's emphasis on organization and system-focused tactics may or may not suit Real Madrid's star-studded roster. In a team with strong individual personalities, the ability of the squad to effectively embrace and adapt to the manager's tactical demands can be a pivotal factor for success.
At Real Madrid, a manager may sometimes have to navigate complex internal dynamics within the squad. Even the club's 'godfather', President Florentino Perez, recognizes the necessity for a 'godfather-like manager' capable of leading a team of superstars. This underscores the importance of possessing outstanding player management skills that go beyond tactical instructions, respecting players' egos and individuality while guiding the team toward common goals. In such an environment, a manager's tactical depth, coupled with a strong character and crisis management skills, will shine even brighter.
In conclusion, Xabi Alonso has already demonstrated his tactical vision and transformative ability with Leverkusen. However, the role of Real Madrid's manager demands a more complex leadership style beyond mere tactical genius. If he were to take up the role at the Santiago Bernabeu, it would be intriguing to see how his meticulous tactical philosophy synergizes with the dynamics of a mega club brimming with world-class superstars, and what new essence of leadership he might reveal in the process.
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