Xavi Alonso reshapes Real Madrid: The transformation from "superstar-driven" to "team first"

Under Alonso's training, Real Madrid is no longer the team that relies on the inspiration of stars, but a collective machine that operates precisely, disciplined and has distinct tactics. This revolutionary change is attracting attention from the entire European football world.

Once upon a time, it was hard to imagine that this wealthy club, known for its tradition and conservatism, could complete such a profound and comprehensive transformation in a short period of time. But now, this is happening, and the key figure behind it is Harvey Alonso.

Even the most optimistic Real Madrid fans have never imagined such a Real Madrid team: clear tactics, smooth coordination, balanced offense and defense, while not losing their beauty and passion. If he was regarded as a "miracle maker" when coaching Leverkusen, then now all doubts have disappeared.

Under Alonso's leadership, this Real Madrid no longer wins the game with Vinicius or Courtois' personal heroism, but relies on overall collaboration, systematic play and high execution to control the overall situation.

Football World Cup Finals vs. Dortmund: A microcosm of change

In the 2025 Club World Cup quarterfinals, Real Madrid narrowly defeated Dortmund 3-2, and this game became the best portrayal of Alonso's football philosophy.

This is not a perfect match - there was a moment of chaos after the halftime break, and before the end of the game, he was even passive because Heyson was dyed red. But there is no doubt that this is their most convincing match so far this season.

Alonso insists on using a familiar starting lineup, demonstrating his trust and fairness in his players. For example, Gonzalo, who had a consecutive starting chance, scored another goal, proving that the coaching staff is unquestionable.

But what is more worthy of attention is the overall style of playing of the team - this is not a team that wins by relying solely on experience and talent, but a team with modern football philosophy, strict organization and advanced tactics.

Tactical innovation: From "11 individuals" to "one whole"

against Dortmund, Alonso's tactical arrangement is very ingenious:

ball control stage: adopt a 4-4-2 formation, with Chu Améni and Guerre partnering with the midfielder, Fran Garcia frequently inserted, and his position was even higher than Arnold.

Defensive stage: Rapidly shrinking into a five-guard system, Arnold retreated to protect the mid-lane empty, Valverde was responsible for keeping the opponent's core Svensong, and Chu Améni was closely tied to Brandt.

The biggest change lies in "collectiveness". In this team, no one can stay still.

The front court frequently switches in the front court, the side is constantly superimposed, and the middle is penetrated, making it difficult to defend. Whether it's Chuameni, Valverde or Bellingham, everyone has the potential to appear in the penalty area and be ready for a fatal blow at any time.

Guerre's role as an offensive organizer is particularly prominent, he is free to schedule in the midfield; Fran Garcia provides speed and depth on the left; Vinicius continues to show his breakthrough ability; and Gonzalo's stable state proves that he is not a flash in the pan.

Under this system, the offensive level is rich, the defense is flexible and maneuverable, and the midfield is strong, forming a beautiful and efficient Real Madrid.

Dotter has almost no choice in the face of such an opponent. Although Kovac's five-guard system has brought a lot of success, all tactical designs seem pale and powerless in front of Real Madrid.

Of course, Real Madrid has not yet reached its peak. The second half revealed some old problems: distraction, unstable rhythm control, and excessive defensive end.

Especially the chaos at the last moment caused Heisen to leave the field. If Courtois had not saved the game bravely, Real Madrid might have paid a heavy price for it.

These lessons remind Alonso: If you want to go further, you must further polish your details and stability.

What really makes this team unique is not only the tactical arrangements, but also the mental outlook.

In Alonso's system, there is no room for laziness. Every player has to participate in defense, and everyone has to run for the collective.

He sent a clear signal: football is not only a victory, but also a process of unity, struggle and creating a beautiful thing together.

This is exactly the new DNA he injected into Real Madrid - in the past, Real Madrid was famous for its "superstar shining"; now, it has a foothold with "discipline and collective".

If you want to use a symbol to represent this transformation, it is two full-backs Arnold and Fran Garcia: they both pressed into the penalty area in one offense, working together to create a second goal, completely disrupting Dortmund's defense line. This is the microcosm of "New Real Madrid".

Next, Real Madrid will play Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals, which will be the real touchstone to test the results of Alonso's reform.

Paris is a master of counterattack conversion, with world-class personal skills and high-intensity game rhythm.

But now Real Madrid is no longer a team that can only rely on the performance of the stars when facing strong opponents. They have the courage, Courtois guards the gate, the cohesion of the whole team, and most importantly - they have Alonso.