According to reports, the Spanish coach, returning to Santiago Bernabéu as one of Real Madrid’s most beloved players, faces multiple challenges after Carlo Ancelotti’s departure (confirmed as Brazil’s new head coach). Alonso, joining Real on a three-year contract, must make critical decisions. While new signings are expected, Real’s injury crisis complicates his task. Below are four key challenges awaiting Alonso.

Changing the Playing System
Alonso made history at Bayer Leverkusen with a three-defender system, delivering their first Bundesliga title. However, implementing this at Real Madrid is tricky. The last time Real consistently used this formation was 25 years ago under Vicente del Bosque. While Solari and Zidane occasionally deployed it, it never fully took root. This system suits physically strong teams but may struggle with Real’s attacking talent.

Managing Veteran Stars
Real Madrid declined in Ancelotti’s final season, partly due to over-reliance on aging players. Lucas Vázquez, a 33-year-old academy product, exemplifies this. With Trent Alexander-Arnold potentially joining and Dani Carvajal returning, Vázquez’s future is uncertain. Alonso, his former teammate, must decide.
Luka Modrić, arguably Real’s greatest midfielder, faces a similar situation. The Croatian may stay another year at reduced wages for the 2026 World Cup, but his reduced role this season highlights the challenge.

Vinicius Junior: The Big Puzzle
Despite controversial behavior frustrating Real’s management, Vinicius remains key. Kylian Mbappé, Florentino Perez’s personal signing, will be the main star, but Alonso must integrate Vinicius. Rumors of Saudi offers resurface, and Vinicius’s form dipped after missing the Ballon d’Or. Recent clashes with fans and defensive indifference drew criticism. Alonso must revive the 24-year-old’s best version—or risk a ticking bomb.

Relationship with Florentino Perez
Alonso and Perez had an excellent rapport during his playing days. Perez even facilitated his 2014 move to Bayern Munich—a rarity at Real. But coach-president dynamics are trickier. Perez recently ignored Ancelotti’s squad reinforcement requests, and Alonso must handle immense pressure. Calling Real “the best club in the world,” he faces a monumental challenge—and reward.
These four issues—tactics, star management, and executive relations—will shape Alonso’s Real future. His homecoming is a historic test.