Europa Press, E-Noticies Xabi Alonso points to a Florentino Pérez signing: 'You have to perform...'
The English midfielder hasn't had the desired return
The match against Atlético de Madrid was a display of imbalance for Real Madrid. The rojiblancos set their pace, pressed hard, and took advantage of every space.
Meanwhile, the white team tried to keep control, but many players were outmatched. Atlético's transitions tore apart the midfield line, and defensive support arrived late.
The collective disaster made it clear that Xabi Alonso's project is still under construction. The wake-up call has already been evident for some names on the field.
In these critical moments, the coach is obliged to demand individual commitment.
Jude Bellingham, under scrutiny after the setback
One of the most singled out was Jude Bellingham. The Englishman, far from shining, suffered the intensity of the classic and wasn't at the level expected of him. His contribution was limited, with little ability to create play or stop the opponent when the match required control.
Xabi Alonso feels the urgency to get him back and is said to have told him something direct in private: "You have to perform the way you know how."
He is a mirror for everyone: Even if he's not at his best, he is required to regain that dominant version that made him indispensable.
Presence alone isn't enough. The coach asks him for reaction, focus, and commitment. He knows he needs the Bellingham who breaks through, who balances in attack, and defends with energy.
Brahim Díaz, on the edge if he doesn't change
In this scenario, another inherited player is starting to falter: Brahim Díaz. The Moroccan is aware that he doesn't count for Xabi Alonso, especially if the team's attacking hierarchy seems consolidated.
Since the Club World Cup, he feels his opportunities aren't coming. The minutes he desired aren't being given to him, and the frustration in his training sessions is evident.
Against Levante, he was already relegated to the bench, and in the classic, his prominence again looks to be zero. He knows that if he doesn't play, his future is uncertain. A departure in the next transfer window wouldn't be surprising.
The real test
The classic has been a brutal test for everyone. No player, no matter how great, escapes the judgment of performance under pressure. Bellingham is heading toward a turning point: If he responds, he can regain his status; if not, criticism won't forgive him.
Brahim looks at his future with concern: Without minutes, without trust, and with competition more alive than ever, the club could look for solutions that don't involve him.
Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso has the task of reactivating the Englishman, defining his midfield, and lining up an eleven capable of competing without cracks. Because at Madrid, there's no room for half measures.
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