Real Madrid could not have asked for a better beginning to life under Xabi Alonso in the 2025/26 campaign.
Two games into the new La Liga season, Los Blancos remain unbeaten and, more impressively, yet to concede a single goal.
While the performances have not always been breathtaking, the results show a team that is slowly finding its rhythm under their new coach. After all, as the old saying goes, a win is a win, no matter how or by how many.
The new era at the Santiago Bernabeu began with a 1-0 victory against Osasuna in Alonso’s official home debut. That was followed by a convincing 3-0 win away at Oviedo.
Two games, two victories, and two clean sheets – a dream start that mirrors what Rafa Benitez achieved a decade ago when he also led Madrid to back-to-back clean sheets at the start of a league campaign.
Alonso’s defensive structure paying off
The most striking change under Alonso so far has been the defensive solidity.
Real Madrid have looked organised and compact, with every player contributing to protecting the goal.
Alonso has pushed his pressing line higher up the pitch, forcing opponents to lose possession in dangerous areas.
This approach has reduced the workload on Thibaut Courtois, who has had little to do in both games so far.
Against Oviedo, Courtois made just one key save from three attempts on target, while Osasuna barely troubled him at all – failing to register a single shot on target.
Such numbers highlight not just the goalkeeper’s quality, but the commitment and structure Alonso has already instilled in his side.
Real Madrid last managed two clean sheets at the start of La Liga back in the 2015/16 season.
Under Benitez, they went four games without conceding, keeping out Sporting de Gijon, Betis, Espanyol, and Granada before finally letting in a goal against Athletic Club at San Mames.
Alonso will now be aiming to match or even surpass that mark as Madrid continue to build confidence under his guidance.
Madriduniversal.com
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