Rafa Benitez explains why Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid spell became so complicated: ‘A lot of politics’

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

Real Madrid sacked Xabi Alonso in January 2026. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

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.

Rafa Benitez had a brief stint at Real Madrid. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)

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