Real Madrid is currently facing a deep crisis, making squad reinforcement in the January transfer window an urgent necessity.
The club has not completely collapsed, but it is clear that performances have fallen short of expectations. Real Madrid are currently four points behind Barcelona in the league standings. In an effort to reverse the situation, the club is reportedly considering two parallel solutions: strengthening the squad through transfers and potentially making a change on the bench, amid reports of internal disagreements between Xabi Alonso and several players.
On the transfer front, Real Madrid has received positive signals from Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. The young English talent is enduring a difficult season at Old Trafford, having failed to start a single Premier League match so far.
Reports from Spain suggest that Barcelona are also keen on signing Mainoo, with the club’s president openly expressing interest in the player. However, it is believed that Real Madrid is Mainoo’s preferred destination, rather than their La Liga rivals.
Despite the growing interest, Real Madrid are still in the evaluation stage and have yet to make a final decision on whether to formally pursue the signing during the upcoming January transfer wind
At the same time, the club’s hierarchy is also closely monitoring the future of Xabi Alonso. Although Real Madrid are currently second in La Liga and have won four out of six matches in the Champions League, the board is reportedly dissatisfied with Alonso’s overall performance, particularly due to his lack of unanimous support within the dressing room.
Alonso has been given a clear ultimatum: he must avoid defeat in the next three matches to keep his job. These fixtures include an away match against Alavés, a Copa del Rey tie against lower-division side Talavera, and a home clash with Sevilla.
Even if Real Madrid manage to overcome Alavés, Alonso will still face two more tests. While these opponents are not considered overly challenging, any slip-up could force the club to consider alternative options. Jurgen Klopp is often mentioned as a potential candidate, although he is unlikely to accept the role. Meanwhile, Real Madrid Castilla coach Álvaro Arbeloa is reportedly the leading internal option should a change be made.
