The San Sebastián native finds himself in treacherous waters just months into his tenure at football's most unforgiving club. What began as a dream appointment has become a crisis of confidence and results.
From League Leaders to Crisis Mode
The turning point arrived on October 26th, following the Clásico victory at the Bernabéu. That afternoon extended the lead over Barcelona to five points, yet paradoxically marked the beginning of a dramatic collapse.
Vinicius Junior's visible frustration upon substitution may have catalyzed what followed. Since then, the team has plummeted to second place, now trailing Barcelona by four points—a nine-point swing that has stunned observers.
Players Under Intense Scrutiny
Sacking managers is easier than overhauling squads mid-season, but several players deserve genuine criticism for their contributions. Alonso's tactics warrant scrutiny, certainly, but individual performances have fallen well short for a club built to dominate in May.
Dean Huijsen's Concerning Decline
The Spanish international arrived as a €60 million investment but has regressed alarmingly after an encouraging start. His nightmare display in the Metropolitano derby shattered confidence that hasn't returned. Patience remains at Valdebebas, but that price tag demands immediate improvement.
Fran García's Inadequate Level
The left-back has consistently shown he lacks the quality this level demands. Losing his starting role to Álvaro Carreras felt inevitable, and his substitute appearances—including an error-filled showing against Sevilla—offer little argument for reconsideration.
Alexander-Arnold's Injury Frustrations
Trent Alexander-Arnold's recruitment aimed to solve the right-back problem permanently. Instead, persistent muscle issues have prevented any sustained run of form. Brief glimpses of his ability tantalize, but availability determines value.
Valverde's System Struggles
Federico Valverde's discomfort under Alonso's tactical approach has become painfully obvious. A player who is ready to give his life for the club and has had to 'fit in' out of his comfort zone, he's operated effectively at right-back, highlighting his versatility, but struggles dramatically in his natural midfield role. These represent his most difficult months in the famous white shirt. But I am sure that he is going to be back to his best.
Camavinga Can't Find Consistency
Eduardo Camavinga seemed destined for midfield supremacy at the Bernabéu. That trajectory has stalled completely. Recurring injuries compound his inability to establish form, raising questions about his long-term future. Summer departure discussions may accelerate if this continues.
Güler's Positional Discomfort
Arda Güler has shown flashes without sustaining excellence. Partnership difficulties with Jude Bellingham persist, while Alonso's decision to deploy him centrally doesn't suit his strengths. He's not ready to carry the team yet.
Rodrygo Needs Sustained Excellence
Recent performances suggest improvement, but Rodrygo must transform encouraging spells into consistent world-class displays. The faith shown in him demands repayment through sustained production.
Vinicius's Alarming Goal Drought
Thirteen consecutive matches without scoring represents a shocking statistic for one of football's premier talents. Creative contributions continue—witness the match-winning assist against Alavés—but expectations for someone among the global elite demand goals alongside creativity.
Mastantuono's Difficult Adjustment
Franco Mastantuono's trajectory from starter to peripheral figure tells a disappointing story. The 18-year-old Argentine's adaptation requires patience, club officials insist, but early returns have underwhelmed significantly.
Bellingham's Inconsistent Impact
Jude Bellingham's campaign has oscillated wildly. His goal against Sevilla demonstrated decisive capability, yet overall performances have disappointed. A player of his caliber must provide consistent game-changing moments, not sporadic brilliance.
Players Meeting Standards
Not everyone deserves criticism. Several squad members have maintained or exceeded expectations during this turbulent period.
Courtois Remains World's Best
Thibaut Courtois continues proving his status as football's finest goalkeeper. Crucial interventions have rescued results repeatedly, including preventing humiliation at Anfield. His performances represent consistent excellence amid chaos.
Militão's Injury Curse
Eder Militão returned from knee surgery looking invincible, seamlessly recapturing form that makes him nearly unbeatable. Tragically, another injury has derailed this positive trajectory.
Asencio's Recovery
Despite a disastrous Club World Cup performance, Raúl Asencio has bounced back impressively. Recent displays have earned continued squad inclusion through merit rather than necessity.
Carreras Meeting Expectations
Álvaro Carreras has experienced rough patches, particularly the Metropolitano derby nightmare. Overall assessment remains positive—he's generally fulfilled expectations attached to his signing.
Tchouaméni's Midfield Dominance
Aurélien Tchouaméni has seized midfield control, providing balance and stability the team desperately needed. Previous supporter criticism has evaporated given his current form.
Mbappé's Remarkable Production
Kylian Mbappé leads La Liga with 18 goals while adding nine Champions League strikes and two Copa del Rey tallies. His 29-goal season has him challenging for a second Golden Boot. Currently football's best player by considerable margin.
Forgotten Figures
Brahim Díaz, Ceballos, and Endrick have faded from view under Alonso's management. The Brazilian teenager particularly deserves mention—his limited opportunities have impressed, leading to the upcoming Lyon loan where regular minutes await.