Gareth Bale recently stirred the waters by suggesting that managing Real Madrid is more about controlling egos than focusing on tactics. The former Los Blancos winger claimed that the Madrid job comes with challenges beyond football, hinting that it’s a dressing room full of superstars who need constant managing.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano via X, Xabi Alonso was asked about Bale’s remarks ahead of Real Madrid’s LaLiga clash with Rayo Vallecano, and the Spaniard handled the question with trademark composure Insisting that the dressing is as united as ever.
He said:
This dressing room has just great players with a lot of personality.
We are starting a new project with a lot of belief. I’m very happy with them, we’re making progress.
Rather than dismissing Bale’s point, Alonso subtly redefined it. He turned the word “egos” into something positive, describing his squad’s confidence and leadership as necessary traits for success at Real Madrid. With stars like Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior setting the tone, it’s clear Alonso sees strength, not conflict, in big personalities.
Vinicius Junior also took responsibility for revolting in the game against Barcelona, with Softfootball reporting that the Brazilian star tendered a heartfelt apology, an indication that in Real Madrid under Xabi Alonso the team comes first.
Following their 1–0 defeat to Liverpool in the Champions League, Real Madrid will be looking to bounce back when they face Rayo Vallecano tomorrow in La Liga. Real Madrid remain top of their league table with 30 points following their last 4–0 victory over Valencia.
The Madrid boss also took a moment to praise Rayo Vallecano’s coach, Iñigo Pérez, calling him “charismatic and authoritative,” perhaps reflecting the kind of communication and character Alonso values in his own setup at the Santiago Bernabéu.
In short, there was no war of words, just quiet authority. Alonso’s message was simple: Real Madrid doesn’t have an ego problem. It has a group of warriors who share belief, ambition, and a hunger to win.
