Real Madrid face Barcelona in a very special Clasico. Not only is this the first El Clasico of the season, but it also marks Xabi Alonso’s debut against the Catalans as Real Madrid manager.
The club and fans are hopeful that Alonso’s charisma and tactical knowledge can help reverse the recent negative trend against their eternal rivals.
So far, Alonso’s record has been impressive – 11 wins from 12 matches – giving Real Madrid confidence as they prepare to challenge Barcelona.
However, Real Madrid’s recent record against Barcelona has not been positive. Last season, Madrid struggled against the Catalans, losing all four encounters.
Only in the Copa del Rey final did Madrid, then managed by Carlo Ancelotti, nearly turn the tide, coming back from 2-0 down.
However, the Merengues fell in extra time, allowing Barcelona to lift the trophy.
Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid manager
Xabi Alonso has a huge task ahead of him. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
A win today would not only give Real Madrid a psychological boost but also a five-point advantage over Barcelona, making the clash even more crucial.
Real Madrid managers’ Clasico records
Alonso faces a tough historical backdrop. Of the last six Real Madrid managers making their debut against Barcelona, only Zinedine Zidane managed a win, triumphing 2-1, reports Defensa Central.
The rest struggled. Jose Mourinho lost 0-5, Carlo Ancelotti 1-2, Rafa Benitez 0-4, Julen Lopetegui 1-5, and Santiago Solari lost both league and cup debuts (0-3 in La Liga and 0-1 in Copa del Rey).
This context adds extra significance to Alonso’s debut. Real Madrid supporters hope his tactical acumen and motivational skills can finally break the streak of poor results against Barcelona in these high-pressure encounters.
With the team in solid form and a clear strategy, Madrid can aim to dominate possession, press effectively, and exploit the gaps left by Barcelona’s absences.
For Alonso, a positive start against the Catalans would set the tone for his tenure and signal that Real Madrid are ready to assert themselves in La Liga once more.