Real Madrid fans are reeling after a shocking 3-2 defeat to Albacete in the Copa del Rey on January 15, 2026. This loss came just hours after the club dismissed their legendary coach. Consequently, many supporters are asking: Why did Real Madrid sack Xabi Alonso? The decision has backfired immediately. Los Blancos now face a season in total disarray under new management.
The Real Reason: Why Did Real Madrid Sack Xabi Alonso?
The primary reason behind the dismissal involves deep-seated tensions within the squad. Although Alonso is a club icon, several key players reportedly felt his tactical system was too rigid. Furthermore, a bitter row with superstars over rotation policies fractured the dressing room.
Florentino Perez criticism Xabi Alonso also played a significant role in the exit. The president felt that the team’s identity was fading under Alonso’s methodical approach. After a devastating loss in the Supercopa, Perez decided that a change was necessary to save the season. Thus, the board chose to prioritize player morale over the coach’s long-term vision.
Analyzing the Albacete vs Real Madrid 3-2 Highlights
If you watch the Albacete vs Real Madrid 3-2 highlights, the lack of leadership is obvious. Albacete, a lower-division side, exploited a team that looked completely lost on the pitch. Even though Madrid managed to find the net twice, their play remained disjointed. The highlights show a team struggling to control the tempo, which was previously Alonso’s greatest strength.
Key Moments from the Match:
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Early Disarray: Albacete took advantage of a nervous Madrid defense early on.
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Lack of Control: The midfield failed to keep possession or protect the backline.
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The Final Straw: A stoppage-time winner by Jefte Betancor sealed Madrid’s humiliation.
Arbeloa Squad Selection Criticism Albacete
The debut of Alvaro Arbeloa has not gone as planned. Much of the Arbeloa squad selection criticism Albacete stems from his choice to rest key stars. By leaving Jude Bellingham and Thibaut Courtois at home, Arbeloa took a massive gamble that failed. Fans argue that a knockout game was the wrong time to experiment with “La Fabrica” youth players.
Moreover, the Real Madrid defensive crisis January 2026 was made worse by these selections. With key defenders already sidelined by injury, the squad lacked the veteran presence needed to handle a hungry Albacete side. You can read more about current squad injuries here.
The Growing Real Madrid Defensive Crisis January 2026
The Real Madrid defensive crisis January 2026 is now the club’s biggest hurdle. The team has conceded nine headed goals this month alone. This highlights a total lack of aerial dominance. Without a clear tactical leader, the defenders appear to be playing without a plan.
It is clear that the Florentino Perez criticism Xabi Alonso has led to a vacuum that Arbeloa cannot yet fill. For more updates on the squad, visit our Spanish football news portal. Understanding the Real Madrid defensive crisis January 2026 is essential for predicting their performance in the upcoming Champions League fixtures.
