Xabi Alonso's arrival on the Real Madrid bench has generated great excitement among the club’s supporters, but not all echoes from his previous stint at Bayer Leverkusen are positive. In recent hours, experienced midfielder Jonas Hofmann has voiced strong criticism of the Spanish coach, revealing internal tensions that surfaced during last season in Germany.

Harsh criticism of Xabi Alonso from a former Bayer Leverkusen player

Hofmann, 33, admitted that the lack of direct communication from Alonso was one of the reasons he seriously considered leaving Leverkusen. In an interview with Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger, he said he expected clearer and more honest treatment after being relegated to the bench during the second half of the 2024-25 season. “A coach shouldn’t wait more than two weeks to speak to a player when he notices a dip in form. Competition is healthy, but so is communication,” he asserted.

These statements contrast with Alonso’s successful tenure in Germany, where he led Leverkusen to their first-ever Bundesliga title. However, Hofmann had little involvement that season, starting only four league matches despite playing in 46 games the previous year. With Erik ten Hag now in charge, the midfielder is hoping for a fresh opportunity.

Meanwhile, in Madrid, young Gonzalo García has decided to remain at the club despite receiving tempting offers from three Premier League teams and one from Serie A. His goal: to earn a place in the first team under Alonso and take advantage of Endrick’s injury absence.

At just 20 years old, Gonzalo was the top scorer at the last Club World Cup, drawing comparisons to legends like Raúl González. Although his release clause is set at 50 million euros, the academy product has chosen to continue growing at the club that developed him. He is currently negotiating an improved contract with his agent.

Álvaro Carreras, a recent signing from Benfica, also expressed confidence in the new project led by Alonso and said he is ready to compete with Fran García and Ferland Mendy.

Despite Hofmann’s criticism, the mood at Valdebebas is optimistic. With young talents like Gonzalo García and Carreras, Alonso’s new Real Madrid aims to blend emerging talent with a winning ambition. The future is already being written.