Xabi Alonso explained his unusual lineup and tactics after Real Madrid were held 2–2 by Elche. With several defenders injured and many players returning from international duty, Alonso opened in a 3-4-1-2 and left Vinícius Júnior, Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga on the bench.
Alonso shifted Álvaro Carreras inside to left-sided centre back to partner Dean Huijsen and Raúl Asencio. Fran García started as left wing-back, Trent Alexander-Arnold covered the right, and Dani Ceballos began in midfield while key defenders were unavailable.
Elche took the lead early in the second half through Aleix Febas. Alonso then made a triple ce, sending on Vinícius, Valverde and Camavinga. Real Madrid responded late: Dean Huijsen scored to level the game, Elche went ahead again through Álvaro Rodríguez, and Jude Bellingham grabbed a stoppage time equaliser to secure a point.
Alonso defended his plan, saying: “It’s a familiar position for García,” and adding that the bench players were there to provide fresh legs. “He’s played there a lot. After the match, the players who stayed off international duty had more training time, and those on the bench were important to bring fresh legs in the second half. We wanted width on the wings. It was a shame we conceded early when we were looking to come back. We fought hard, and after the equalizer, I think we needed to push forward a bit more.” He also said there was “no problem” because García “knew the role” he was asked to play.
Alonso noted the recent results are not what the club wants but urged calm. “It’s soccer. After a good run, we’ve had results that aren’t what we wanted,” he said. He stressed: “The team hasn’t collapsed,” and added that the squad remains competitive and must keep working to improve. The draw leaves Real Madrid one point clear of Barcelona after 13 rounds.
Can we talk about how Xabi Alonsos tactical decisions impacted Real Madrids draw against Elche? Lets debate!
Is it fair to criticize Xabi Alonso for his choices in the Real Madrid draw at Elche? Lets discuss!
I cant believe some are still doubting Xabi Alonsos decisions. Hes a legend, trust his choices! #TeamXabi #RealMadrid
I think Xabi Alonso needs to take more risks on the field. Playing it safe wont always lead to victory. What do you think?
Do you think Xabi Alonso made the right choices? Im torn, but his experience definitely played a role. What do you all think?
Xabi Alonso needs to step up his game. Real Madrid cant afford to keep drawing against smaller teams. Time to deliver!
Do you think Xabi Alonso made the right call after the Real Madrid draw? Or should he have done soing different? Lets discuss!
Do you think Xabi Alonso made the right call after the Real Madrid draw? Or should he have done soing different? Lets discuss!
Do you think Xabi Alonso made the right choices during the Real Madrid draw at Elche? Lets discuss!
Do you think Xabi Alonso made the right choices during the Real Madrid draw at Elche? Lets discuss! #footballtalk
Do you think Xabi Alonso should have made different choices during the game? Lets discuss! #RealMadrid #Elche #FootballFans
I think Xabi Alonso should have been more vocal about the teams performance. Communication is key in football!
Do you think Xabi Alonsos choices were justified in the Real Madrid draw at Elche? Lets discuss! #footballtalk
I cant believe some fans are still criticizing Xabi Alonso! Hes a legend, let him do his thing. #AlonsoFanForever 💪🏼