Real Madrid fans are reeling after a shocking 3-2 defeat to Albacete. This Copa del Rey loss on January 15, 2026, happened just hours after a coaching change. Consequently, many supporters are asking: Why did Real Madrid sack Xabi Alonso? The decision has backfired immediately. Los Blancos now face a season in total disarray under new management. The transition from a tactical mastermind to sudden chaos has left the Bernabéu in shock.
The Real Reason: Why Did Real Madrid Sack Xabi Alonso?
The primary reason for the dismissal involves deep-seated tensions within the squad. Although Alonso is a club icon, several key players felt his system was too rigid. Furthermore, a bitter row over rotation policies fractured the dressing room.
Florentino Perez criticism Xabi Alonso also played a significant role in the exit. The president felt the team’s identity was fading. After a devastating loss in the Supercopa, Perez decided a change was necessary. Thus, the board chose to prioritize player morale over Alonso’s long-term vision. However, the question remains: Why did Real Madrid sack Xabi Alonso right before a knockout match?
Analyzing the Albacete vs Real Madrid 3-2 Highlights
If you watch the Albacete vs Real Madrid 3-2 highlights, the lack of leadership is obvious. Albacete, a lower-division side, exploited a team that looked lost. Even though Madrid scored twice, their play remained disjointed.
The highlights show a team struggling to control the tempo. This was previously Alonso’s greatest strength. Key moments from the match include:
- Early Disarray: Albacete scored twice in the first twenty minutes.
- Lack of Control: The midfield failed to protect the backline.
- The Final Straw: A stoppage-time winner sealed Madrid’s humiliation.
Arbeloa Squad Selection Criticism Albacete
The debut of Alvaro Arbeloa did not go as planned. Much of the Arbeloa squad selection criticism Albacete stems from his choice to rest stars. By leaving Jude Bellingham at home, Arbeloa took a massive gamble.
Fans argue that a knockout game was the wrong time to experiment. You can check the latest tactical reports here to see where the formation failed. The youth players from “La Fabrica” could not handle the pressure of a hostile away stadium.
The Growing Real Madrid Defensive Crisis January 2026
The Real Madrid defensive crisis January 2026 is now the club’s biggest hurdle. The team has conceded nine goals this month alone. This highlights a total lack of aerial dominance. Without a tactical leader, the defenders appear to be playing without a plan.
It is clear that the Florentino Perez criticism Xabi Alonso created a vacuum. Arbeloa cannot yet fill this gap. For more updates, visit our Spanish football news portal. Understanding the Real Madrid defensive crisis January 2026 is essential for predicting their Champions League performance.
The board must act fast. If they don’t, the question “Why did Real Madrid sack Xabi Alonso?” will haunt them all season.
