Real Madrid are entering a period of significant internal strain following their disappointing 1–1 draw against Girona on matchday 14 of the 2025/26 La Liga season. The result has intensified speculation surrounding Xabi Alonso’s future, but the concerns stretch beyond on-field performance. The dressing room is reportedly unsettled, with key players openly questioning tactical decisions and squad selections.
According to internal sources, former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has privately warned Alonso about a particular player he believes “does not deserve to start” and “undermines the morale of his teammates.” The identity of this player remains undisclosed, but several senior figures describe him as disruptive and mentally detached from the club. One source claims he is “already focused on England, not Madrid,” creating divisions between those who support Alonso and those who doubt his man-management.
These tensions pose a major challenge as the season progresses. Real Madrid must balance their lofty sporting ambitions with the need to restore unity and discipline within the squad. Each upcoming match will test not only the technical quality of the team but also Alonso’s leadership and his ability to manage dressing-room dynamics under pressure.
With increased scrutiny from club executives and intense media attention, the coming weeks will be decisive. The club will need to evaluate whether the internal instability can be resolved quickly enough to maintain their pursuit of domestic and European trophies.
Ultimately, Zidane’s warning, the ongoing behavioural issues, and the demanding competitive context highlight the complexities of managing a club of Real Madrid’s stature. Individual performance must align with collective harmony, and the outcome of this situation may have lasting implications for both the squad’s cohesion and Alonso’s tenure as head coach.
