Alonso Builds a New-Look Real Madrid Ahead of Liverpool Reunion

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso returns to Anfield on Tuesday to face his former club Liverpool in the Champions League, following a near-perfect start to his tenure in Spain. While Liverpool have struggled with only two wins in their last eight matches, Alonso’s Madrid side are in superb form, steadily improving each week under his leadership.

The 15-time European champions defeated Barcelona in El Clasico last weekend and are eager to showcase their dominance once again against Arne Slot’s Liverpool. Their only loss this season came in a 5-2 derby defeat to Atletico Madrid — a setback they have since grown stronger from.

Many Liverpool supporters had hoped Alonso would succeed Jurgen Klopp when the German announced his departure at the end of the 2023/24 season. Known for his elegance and intelligence on the ball, Alonso orchestrated Liverpool’s midfield from 2004 to 2009, helping the Reds win the 2005 Champions League and FA Cup before moving to Real Madrid.

After extending his stay at Bayer Leverkusen for another season, Alonso eventually took over from Carlo Ancelotti at Madrid following a trophyless campaign. His impact has been immediate — Madrid have won 13 of their 14 games this season.

Under Alonso, Madrid press higher and defend with far greater discipline. “To win trophies, you must defend well and keep clean sheets,” he said after Madrid secured their seventh shutout in a 4-0 victory over Valencia. Spanish media have described his Madrid as a side that now “dominates and suffocates opponents,” marking a clear shift from the sluggish displays of the previous season.

Alonso has also displayed tactical flexibility, adjusting formations and game plans frequently — a contrast to Ancelotti’s predictable style. Opting to train in Madrid before traveling to England, Alonso explained, “We prefer to work at home, in our own space, without 200 cameras on us.”

He has revitalised key players, though not without challenges. Vinicius Junior’s frustration after being substituted during El Clasico led to a brief controversy, but the Brazilian later apologised. Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe has been in stunning form, scoring 18 goals this season and adding defensive intensity to his play.

Jude Bellingham has also flourished, scoring crucial goals against Barcelona, Juventus, and Valencia. After managing his recovery from shoulder surgery carefully, Alonso has positioned the Englishman as a driving force in midfield. Turkish youngster Arda Guler is likewise being moulded into a future replacement for Toni Kroos and Luka Modric.

As Alonso steps back into Anfield, he aims to prove his Real Madrid side are not just rebuilding — they are ready to compete for Europe’s biggest prizes once again.