Xabi Alonso’s ideas paying off as Real Madrid boast best defensive record in La Liga | OneFootball

Xabi Alonso has wasted no time in stamping his ideas on Real Madrid.

In fact, as observed by AS, the Spanish coach has built his system around defence first, and the results are already clear.

Madrid have kept two clean sheets in two matches, showing a level of discipline that hasn’t been seen for some time.

A key factor behind this change is the collective pressing Alonso has introduced. His side has already recovered the ball 84 times in the opponent’s half, more than any other team in the league.

This pressing game is a major shift from Carlo Ancelotti’s Madrid, which often sat deeper and preferred to soak up pressure before countering.

Solid defence with growing attacking signs

Defensively, Madrid look almost untouchable. Only eight shots have been attempted against them across two matches, the fewest in the league, while just three have been on target.

Xabi Alonso has transformed Real Madrid. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

To put things in perspective, Villarreal, who are currently at the top of the table, have conceded more attempts, and Barcelona have allowed double the number of shots on goal compared to Madrid.

While the attack is still finding its rhythm, the signs are positive. Real Madrid currently have the second-highest possession rate in the league at 67%, just behind Barcelona’s 76%.

They have managed 42 shots in total, with 14 on target, and four goals scored so far, which is an average of two per match.

The biggest difference under Alonso, however, is what happens off the ball. The team now presses relentlessly, a style they lacked under Ancelotti, who admitted he preferred a low defensive block.

Alonso has changed that mindset completely, making Madrid the most aggressive team in winning the ball back high up the pitch.

If this balance between defence and attack continues to grow, Real Madrid could be set for a very successful season.