Real Madrid legend Karim Benzema has reportedly urged President Florentino Pérez to reinforce the squad and maintain faith in Xabi Alonso following another disappointing El Clásico defeat in Saudi Arabia.
The meeting took place in the VIP boxes of the King Abdullah Sports City stadium, just before the Spanish Super Cup final, where Real Madrid suffered their third consecutive runner-up finish to Barcelona. According to Radio MARCA’s Ramón Álvarez de Mon, the Frenchman—who now plays in the Saudi Pro League—shared a private moment with Pérez to discuss the club’s current tactical struggles.
The Two Pillars of Benzema’s Advice
Benzema, who remains a close confidant of the Madrid board, was clear about what the team needs to regain its dominance in Europe:
- Patience with Xabi Alonso: Despite the recent Super Cup heartbreak, Benzema insists that Alonso is the right man to lead the new project.
- Midfield Reinforcements: The Frenchman pointed out a lack of control in the middle of the pitch, a sentiment reportedly shared by Xabi Alonso himself.
INEOS vs. The Board: No January Signings?
While the board has confirmed total confidence in Xabi Alonso, they seem to disagree on the timing of new signings. Reports from Diario AS suggest that Real Madrid will not enter the market this January, despite Alonso’s request for a creative midfielder to fill the void left by aging veterans.
Instead, the club is preparing a “Galactico” summer for July 2026. The shortlist of targets includes:
- Vitinha (PSG): The “dream” signing, valued at €90 million.
- Rodri (Man City): A long-term target to bring defensive stability.
- Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace): The young English sensation seen as a future star.
- Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool): A versatile option for the creative role.
Defensive Overhaul: The End of an Era?
The summer of 2026 will also mark a shift in the defensive line. With David Alaba expected to leave and Antonio Rüdiger nearing the end of his contract, Real Madrid is scouting Marc Guéhi from Crystal Palace as a priority replacement.
What’s Next for Xabi Alonso?
After the Super Cup disappointment, the pressure is on. Real Madrid must now shift focus to:
- Copa del Rey: A tricky away fixture against Albacete.
- La Liga: A must-win home game against Levante.
- Champions League: The ultimate priority where Alonso’s tactical genius will be truly tested.
