League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: England Category: Coaching

Rafa Benitez discusses Xabi Alonso's complicated tenure at Real Madrid

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 25, 2026, 8:30 AM

Last updated Aug 25, 2026

Rafa Benitez discusses Xabi Alonso's complicated tenure at Real Madrid

Summary

Rafa Benitez spoke on the challenges Xabi Alonso faced as manager of Real Madrid, highlighting the role of 'politics' within the club. Benitez, who has a professional history with both Alonso and Real Madrid, noted that despite Alonso's success at Bayer Leverkusen, he struggled to replicate that impact at the Santiago Bernabeu. Alonso's expected duration in charge ended prematurely in January 2026, raising questions about the difficulties inherent in managing the prestigious club. Benitez's comments were made ahead of the Fulham vs Chelsea match.

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Status Watch

•Benitez offers insights on Alonso's managerial challenges at Real Madrid.
•Alonso ended his Real Madrid tenure earlier than anticipated in January 2026.
•Benitez emphasizes the influence of club politics on Alonso's experience.
•Alonso had a successful managerial stint at Bayer Leverkusen before his Real Madrid appointment.
•Benitez and Alonso have a history from their time at Liverpool.

Latest Updates

10:00 PMYahoo Sports — Rafa Benítez says ‘politics’ made Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid tenure more complicated
8:30 AMYahoo Sports — Rafa Benitez explains why Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid spell became so complicated: ‘A lot of politics’

What they're saying

"
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...
— Yahoo Sports