Manchester City Put on a Masterclass Against Juventus (5-2)
Real Madrid dominate Salzburg with tactical brilliance as Xabi Alonso’s system starts taking shape. Güler, Vinícius, and Gonzalo García shine.
Shortest90
- June 27, 2025
Madrid, Spain – The echoes of a new era continue to grow louder at the Santiago Bernabéu as Xabi Alonso’s tactical revolution takes firmer shape. In their latest clash, Real Madrid put on a masterclass against RB Salzburg, deploying a dynamic back-three system that reflected Alonso’s hallmark philosophy from his Bayer Leverkusen days.
Madrid registered a dominant 2-0 victory in a match defined not just by the scoreline but by the system, the intent, and the execution.
Formation Shift: 3-2 Structure Speaks Volumes
For the first time under Alonso’s leadership, Los Blancos adopted a 3-2 build-up formation, featuring Dean Howson, Antonio Rüdiger, and Aurélien Tchouaméni as a solid backline trio. The wing-backs – Trent Alexander-Arnold and Fran García – provided the width and intensity, while a midfield trio of Arda Güler, Fede Valverde, and Jude Bellingham orchestrated the tempo.
Alonso’s idea was clear: create numerical superiority in buildup, bypass Salzburg’s high press, and maintain fluidity through short passes and quick transitions.
“You simply cannot deny that Xabi Alonso has resurrected Real Madrid’s soul,” the host of The Madrid Pandits stated passionately during the post-match analysis.
Tactical Philosophy: Alonso’s Leverkusen DNA
The pressing sequences, ball recoveries, and second-ball dominance showed Real Madrid are rapidly internalizing Alonso’s tactical demands. The team frequently turned over possession in Salzburg’s half, launching fast transitions in classic 2v1 counter-pressing situations — a trademark of Alonso’s coaching blueprint.
However, a minor tactical flaw emerged when Madrid defended in a 5-3-2 block. Salzburg, operating with a four-man midfield, occasionally outnumbered Madrid’s three in the middle. Analysts suggested shifting to a 5-4-1 block off the ball to avoid being exposed centrally.
Individual Brilliance: Stars and Young Guns Shine
Vinícius Jr. led the attack with a dazzling display: one goal, one assist, and a brilliant back-heel setup for Valverde’s finish. His performance screamed “mentality monster” and reaffirmed his role as the team’s spearhead.
Gonzalo García, the Castilla product, continued to impress. Now with two goals and multiple assists in the tournament, the 21-year-old made a strong case for first-team inclusion. “He’s not here just to replace Mbappé – he’s here to compete for a place,” the pundits noted.
Arda Güler, deployed in a deeper role, registered a stunning 9 duels won — a stat that defied expectations. His control, distribution, and tenacity in midfield highlighted his growing influence.
Fran García had arguably his best half in a Madrid shirt, constantly running the flanks and delivering pinpoint crosses. The pundits even joked he looked like Theo Hernández reborn.
Trent Alexander-Arnold impressed with cross-field switches and precision passing, validating the pre-season belief that his addition would upgrade Madrid’s distribution game.
Bellingham and Valverde maintained their high-energy performances, with Jude recording a crucial assist and orchestrating quick transitions from deep zones.
Up Next: Real Madrid vs Juventus
The next test for Alonso’s Real Madrid comes in the form of Juventus this weekend. The match not only marks a continuation of their tactical development but also offers an intriguing subplot: Dean Howson faces his former club. Will he deliver a signature header and remind the Bianconeri of what they lost?
Final Word
This wasn’t just another friendly. It was a glimpse into the future of Real Madrid under Xabi Alonso — a future defined by tactical clarity, youthful energy, and fearless football. From positional play to pressing philosophy, the Merengues are evolving into a unit that may well dominate Europe again.
¡Hala Madrid y nada más!
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