Tella Confident Alonso Will Thrive at Real Madrid

Nathan Tella has voiced strong support for Xabi Alonso, convinced the Spaniard will excel at Real Madrid following his transformative spell at Bayer Leverkusen. The 43‑year‑old coach succeeded Carlo Ancelotti on a three‑year deal until June 2028. During his time in Germany, Alonso led Leverkusen to their first ever Bundesliga title in 2023–24, going unbeaten in the league, and took them to the Europa League final. He also guided Die Werkself to victories in the German Cup and DFL‑Supercup, cementing his reputation as a top tactical mind.

Tella praised Alonso’s impact both on and off the pitch, revealing how his tactical insights deepened his understanding of the game after joining from Southampton. “Obviously, Alonso is a brilliant manager there’s no surprise. Even last season, before he went to Real Madrid, he got interest from a lot of the big clubs in world football,” Tella told Flashscore.

“But for him to be a part of the team (Leverkusen) and to have him as our manager, he was able to bring a different side to the game to us. We were able to see the game, me especially, I was able to see the game from a different point of view.” He added “This isn’t a setback it’s a new beginning. Coaches looking to reinforce their back line with youth and talent should know: I’m available, adaptable, and determined to prove myself.” .

On whether Alonso can match Ancelotti’s achievements at Madrid, Tella was unambiguous: “Of course. You know, I think even when he got the job at Leverkusen, I don’t think anyone expected him to do what he’s done with us,” he said. “If anything, I think he’ll get even better than how he was with us.”

Alonso had less than two weeks with Real before leading them in the expanded Club World Cup in the United States. Madrid reached the semi-finals with four wins in five matches but suffered a heavy 4‑0 defeat to Paris Saint‑Germain, ending hopes of a final spot.

Tella remains upbeat about Leverkusen’s prospects, having secured Champions League qualification by finishing runners‑up in the Bundesliga. He believes the squad is ready to compete at the highest level. “We understand what it takes to reach the top eight … it’s about maintaining maturity … adopting a killer mentality … playing with confidence and consistency to achieve success,” he added.

With pre‑season now underway including a friendly against Flamengo U20 in Brazil Tella is focused on Leverkusen’s European ambitions under new leadership.

Editorial

We observe Tella’s backing of Alonso and feel the significance for football in general. A coach proving himself at Leverkusen before stepping into a pressure cooker like Real Madrid is rare. His unbeaten Bundesliga campaign and cup double were extraordinary. That success deserves attention.

We understand why so many in Madrid view him as the logical successor to Ancelotti. High expectations are inevitable at the Bernabéu. Carrying forward one of Europe’s most decorated clubs demands not just tactical acumen, but player management and adaptability. Alonso’s tenure in Germany suggests he is ready for that task.

We must acknowledge lessons from the Club World Cup defeat to PSG. That 4‑0 loss was a stark reminder that elite competition leaves no room for early mistakes. Yet Alonso’s composed post‑match analysis, emphasising self‑criticism and a rebuild from scratch, reveals his maturity. He seems capable of absorbing setbacks, evolving, and building something strong.

We believe a delicate blend is required at Madrid now. The coach must combine authority and flexibility—balancing structure with individual brilliance. Fans and the press may debate whether Alonso can coax more from Mbappé, Vinícius, Bellingham and Rodrygo than their predecessors did. Ultimately, real success will depend on collective belief and precise execution.

We are persuaded that Alonso’s energy, clarity and modern mindset equip him well for this new era. The potential is there. If he can channel it, the team could rediscover its brilliance on major stages once again. That is a future worth anticipating.

Did You Know?

1. Real Madrid appointed Xabi Alonso on 26 May 2025, just one day after Carlo Ancelotti departed for Brazil’s national team.
2. During their unbeaten 2023–24 Bundesliga triumph, Leverkusen amassed a club‑record points tally and clinched the German Cup, achieving the double for the first time.
3. Alonso played 236 matches for Real Madrid from 2009–14, winning six major trophies including La Décima, Madrid’s 10th Champions League triumph.
4. Madrid’s new signings this summer include Trent Alexander‑Arnold and young defender Dean Huijsen, signalling a shift towards restructuring for Alonso’s tactical approach.
5. Real Madrid’s Club World Cup in 2025 featured their first match on 18 June against Al‑Hilal in Miami, marking the inaugural edition under the expanded format.