Not every match is the same. Some encounters go beyond the result, marking the beginning of a new chapter. After such games, it often feels as though something within the team has fundamentally changed. This season’s first El Clásico in La Liga was one such turning point. Real Madrid celebrated that victory in style. Though it was not a title-deciding match, the significance lay in how the team did not sink into complacency afterward. Instead, it seemed to inspire them to fight even harder.
Following the El Clásico, Real faced Valencia last night. Once again, Xabi Alonso’s side displayed the same intensity, discipline and hunger for victory. Overall, it was arguably one of Real’s finest performances under Alonso — a win that symbolised not just great football, but a profound shift in mentality and structure.
So far this season, Real Madrid have won 13 of their 14 matches — 10 out of 11 in the league and all three in the Champions League. Under Alonso, they have already carved out a distinct identity for themselves.
The Spanish coach has managed to transform the team not only tactically but also philosophically and mentally. The players now appear more spontaneous, dynamic and confident on the pitch. Their understanding and chemistry with one another have matured noticeably. As a result, Real have become a team that can both suffocate their opponents and execute their own game plan to perfection.
This Real Madrid side neither waits passively for chances nor wastes energy by rushing aimlessly. They know how to take control of a match without yielding an inch. As Alonso himself said, “We played with great intensity and pressed immediately after losing the ball. Everyone’s commitment and positive mindset are our greatest strengths.”
Under Alonso, Real Madrid’s pressing game has become so fierce that their opponents can complete only an average of 11.8 passes before losing possession. In other words, Madrid’s press is highly organised and relentless. Each time they regain the ball, they instantly turn defence into attack — every recovery becomes a potential goal-scoring opportunity.
However, among Europe’s top leagues, the number one team in this metric is Cesç Fàbregas’s Italian side, Como, who regain possession after just 6.76 passes, pressing even faster. Yet Real Madrid lead in another key area — they have recovered the ball 37 times in the opposition’s final third, the highest in Europe this season.
Behind them in the list are Strasbourg (34), Brest (33), Brighton (32) and Barcelona (31).