Real Madrid‘s Draw at Atlético Exposes Cracks in Alonso’s System
madrid, Spain – Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw against atlético Madrid on Sunday revealed notable issues within Xabi Alonso’s squad, raising concerns as the season progresses. While Jude Bellingham’s defensive heroics salvaged a point, the match highlighted a troubling imbalance and a reliance on the English midfielder to compensate for shortcomings across the pitch. The result underscores a need for tactical adjustments and improved performance from key players if Real Madrid hopes to contend for La Liga and Champions League titles.
Alonso’s decision to start Bellingham, despite limited minutes following injury, signaled a gamble that ultimately exposed deeper systemic problems. The England international, typically deployed as an attacking force, found himself repeatedly tracking back to cover for defensive lapses, making a crucial goal-line clearance in the first half. This reliance on Bellingham’s defensive contributions is a worrying sign, as his true value lies in orchestrating attacks.
Despite fielding four defenders and two defensive midfielders, Real Madrid’s backline struggled, forcing Bellingham into a defensive role. He finished the match with a game-high five tackles and won nine of his 12 duels in 70 minutes, statistics more indicative of a defensive midfielder than a creative playmaker. Los Blancos managed only two shots on target throughout the entire match, a clear indication of their offensive struggles and the cost of deploying Bellingham out of position.
