Xabi Alonso has underlined that his attention is firmly on Real Madrid’s growth rather than Barcelona’s early results in La Liga. The Spanish coach, appointed in May to succeed Carlo Ancelotti, has been tasked with reviving the club after a trophyless 2024/25 campaign. His appointment came just before the FIFA Club World Cup, leaving him little time to shape the team during preseason.
Despite that challenge, Alonso’s tenure began with a win. A second-half penalty from Kylian Mbappé sealed a 1-0 victory over Osasuna at the Bernabéu. While the result delivered a valuable three points, the performance was not as assertive as some supporters might have hoped for on opening weekend. Alonso, however, made clear that his concern lies in steady improvement, saying: “I’m not worried at all about Barcelona. My focus is on Real Madrid and our progress. Each week we can improve and grow.”
Barcelona begin with strong momentum
While Madrid had to grind out their first win, Barcelona started the season in emphatic fashion. Hansi Flick’s men, who lifted three trophies in the German coach’s debut campaign, made light work of Mallorca in their first match of the new season. The visitors struck twice early on, putting the game beyond reach before halftime.
Their task was made easier when Mallorca suffered two dismissals before the break, reducing the home side to nine men. With control firmly established, teenager Lamine Yamal added a spectacular third goal in stoppage time to round off a commanding display.
Barcelona’s win was not only a statement of intent but also an early reminder of their consistency under Flick. They will look to extend that momentum with an away trip to Levante, scheduled a day before Real Madrid’s clash with Real Oviedo. This timing offers the Catalan side an opportunity to maintain early pressure in the title race.
Madrid’s upcoming tests
Alonso’s immediate focus will be navigating a challenging run of fixtures that could quickly shape the mood around the club. Following the visit to Oviedo, Real Madrid will host Mallorca in their final match before the September international break.
The month ahead promises to be demanding. In addition to four La Liga matches, Real Madrid face a crucial early-season derby against Atlético Madrid. The start of the UEFA Champions League group stage will also add another layer of intensity to Alonso’s opening weeks in charge.
Though it is still early in the campaign, comparisons with Barcelona are inevitable. Flick’s team has already demonstrated the form that delivered silverware last season, while Alonso is intent on building a foundation of consistency for his side. For now, he remains clear that Real Madrid’s journey under his leadership takes precedence over anything happening in Catalonia.
