Real Madrid News
Rafa Benitez explains why Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid spell became so complicated: ‘A lot of politics’
Xabi Alonso arrived at Real Madrid with one of the strongest reputations in European football.
His work at Bayer Leverkusen had established him as one of the game’s most exciting young coaches, and his return to the Santiago Bernabeu appeared to be the natural next step in his managerial career.
However, it did not work out that way.
Alonso’s time in charge of Real Madrid ended far sooner than expected, leaving questions about why a coach who had achieved so much success in Germany struggled to make the same impact at the club where he had once been a key player.
Now, Rafa Benitez has offered his view on what made the Real Madrid job particularly difficult for the former Spain international.
Speaking before the Fulham vs Chelsea match, Benitez, who coached Alonso during his successful spell at Liverpool, pointed to the environment surrounding the Spanish giants.
Benitez knows Alonso and Real Madrid better than most
Benitez is in a strong position to discuss Alonso’s situation.
The two worked together during Alonso’s time at Liverpool, where Benitez helped guide the midfielder through some of the most successful years of his playing career.
Their relationship gives the veteran coach a close understanding of Alonso’s personality and his approach to football.
Furthermore, Benitez also knows the demands of Real Madrid first-hand.
A product of the club’s youth system, he later worked with Castilla before taking charge of the first team during the 2015/16 season.
His own spell was short, lasting only 18 matches, and it gave him direct experience of how quickly things can become complicated at the Santiago Bernabeu.
With years of experience across Spain and England, and major success at Liverpool, Benitez’s assessment of Alonso’s Real Madrid exit carries strong credibility.
‘Politics’ behind Alonso’s Real Madrid difficulties
Benitez was asked about Alonso during an appearance on the BBC, and he began by highlighting why the former Real Madrid midfielder had earned his opportunity.
“He did very well at Bayer Leverkusen and that’s why he went to Real Madrid. He was similar to me.”
The Spanish coach then explained what he believes defines Alonso’s approach as a manager.
“He likes to work hard, organise things, and talk to the players about what they want to do.
“But there’s a lot of politics at Real Madrid, and perhaps that’s why it was more complicated,” he concluded.
Source: Mundo Deportivo
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
