Mbappe Admits Real Madrid Slump Amid Alonso Unrest

Real Madrid’s recent struggles have been brought into sharp focus by Kylian Mbappe, who openly admitted the team “played very badly” in their defeats to Atletico Madrid and Liverpool. His candid assessment comes at a turbulent time for new manager Xabi Alonso, whose demanding approach has unsettled some players and raised fresh questions about the club’s tactical direction.

Real Madrid Slump Tests Alonso’s Methods

Real Madrid entered the season with optimism under Xabi Alonso, expecting his disciplined structure to enhance a squad filled with attacking talent. However, the reality has proven challenging. Alonso’s rigorous tactics, strict schedules, and increased physical demands mark a stark contrast to the freedom players enjoyed under Carlo Ancelotti. While Los Blancos remain top of La Liga, on-field performances have been patchy, most notably in the 5-2 loss to Atletico Madrid and the 1-0 defeat at Anfield against Liverpool.

Kylian Mbappe Addresses Real Madrid’s Performance Issues

Following France’s convincing 4-0 win over Ukraine, the spotlight quickly shifted to Mbappe for insight into the mood at Real Madrid. When pressed about the club’s recent performances and rumors of dressing room tension, the French star replied, “When you don’t win games at Real Madrid, people talk a lot. We’ve played very badly, but we’ll come back after the break ready to beat Elche. We’re still first in La Liga and among the top eight in the Champions League. We know there’s talk, but we are united to win every title this year.”

Signs of Tactical Stagnation

Madrid’s stuttering attack has been a persistent issue. A recent 0-0 draw with Rayo Vallecano saw the team dominate possession and record over 20 shots, yet rarely threaten the opposition. The forwards were often crowded in central areas, with little movement off the ball or decisive final passes to break through compact defenses. Alonso’s system, while defensively rigid, has at times robbed Madrid of their attacking imagination.

Defensive Vulnerabilities Exposed

Both Atletico Madrid and Liverpool exploited Real Madrid’s structural weaknesses. Against Atletico, Madrid lost control in midfield and struggled to respond to their rivals’ aggression and transition play. At Anfield, Liverpool’s relentless pressing forced Madrid into mistakes, isolating key attackers like Mbappe and Jude Bellingham from the action. The team managed just a single shot on target as their slow buildup played into Liverpool’s hands.

Internal Challenges: Xabi Alonso and the Dressing Room

Alonso’s approach has not been universally embraced. Reports of unrest among players, many of whom thrived under Ancelotti’s more relaxed and player-driven environment, have surfaced. The increased training load and tactical rigidity have tested the adaptability of the squad, with some feeling restricted by the lack of creative freedom. Despite this, the club’s leadership remains steadfast in its support for Alonso and his long-term vision, with no immediate plans for drastic changes.

Vinicius Junior’s Uncertain Future

Another layer of complexity surrounds Vinicius Junior. The Brazilian forward’s relationship with Alonso appears strained, with visible frustration during recent substitutions and stalled contract negotiations. The club is reportedly setting a €150 million price tag if talks collapse, putting his future at the Bernabéu in doubt. How Alonso manages to reconnect with Vinicius could influence Real Madrid’s trajectory in the coming seasons.

Looking Ahead: Can Real Madrid Recover?

The international break offers Real Madrid a crucial reset. Upcoming fixtures against Elche, Olympiacos, and Girona will test Alonso’s ability to address recent shortcomings and restore confidence. The squad’s resilience will be put to the test, and whether Alonso can adapt his methods to unlock the team’s full potential remains to be seen.

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Opinion: Time for Adaptation, Not Panic

Real Madrid’s current slump is certainly concerning, but it is far from irreversible. Xabi Alonso’s philosophy requires time and buy-in from the squad. With so much talent at his disposal, the key will be finding a balance between discipline and creative freedom. If Alonso can adapt, Real Madrid should emerge stronger and more cohesive. The next few weeks will reveal whether this is just a transitional wobble or a sign of deeper issues.