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July 10, 2025

Xabi Alonso looks forward to ‘starting from scratch’ with Real Madrid

Xabi Alonso looks forward to ‘starting from scratch’ with Real Madrid
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Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has vowed to rebuild the team from the ground up following their crushing 4–0 semi-final loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup. He acknowledged PSG’s development strength and emphasised that his squad is merely at the early stages of a wider transformation.

Alonso, who took over in late May after a successful spell at Bayer Leverkusen, admitted that facing a fully formed PSG first team exposed “wide margin[s] to improve.” He said: “PSG are a team who have been built over time, whereas we are practically just beginning. We have lots of room for improvement.”

He highlighted the early goals—conceded within nine minutes—as a key turning point and recognised that structural defensive issues forced Real to reconsider their approach.

Alonso views this loss not as a setback but a launchpad. In his words: “We come away from here a better team… Things are going to be different. We are starting from scratch.”

He noted that this tournament provided crucial insights, with solutions now needed quickly as Real prepare for a tight offseason before launching the 2025–26 La Liga campaign in August.

Spanish media have been scathing following the defeat, criticising Alonso’s tactical decisions, including reverting to a back-four, and calling for “a fundamental rebuild”. Some compared the tactical errors to those made by former coach Ancelotti.

Despite this, there are bright signs. Columnist Tomás Roncero insisted Alonso had “resurrected optimism” within the club, highlighting early positives from a revamped midfield and pressing system.

What comes next

  • Real will gear up for La Liga’s opener on August 19, aiming to establish a new tactical identity and cohesion during the short pre-season.
     
  • With potential new signings expected, Alonso looks ready to reshape the squad around youthful reinforcements and a more systematic approach .
     
  • Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely: Will his rebuild result in quick success—or will the club need more time to adjust?

Xabi Alonso has made it clear: this campaign is about starting again—not salvaging the past. Real Madrid’s fans will hope the “new age” he promises begins with lessons learned in New Jersey and blossoms into on-field triumph.


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