Real Madrid has reached the halfway point of the season feeling ambivalent. After a promising start, recent results and performances have not lived up to expectations.
A noticeable decline has led to increased scrutiny of coach Xabi Alonso. Although there’s still a sense of stability within the club, critical evaluations are expected in January 2026, especially with the approaching Spanish Super Cup—the first trophy Real Madrid will compete for this season.
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The anticipation was high following the club’s significant summer investment in key acquisitions like Dean Huijsen, Franco Mastantuono, and Alvaro Carreras.
While Real Madrid did support Alonso in the transfer market, it seems not all of his preferences were fulfilled over the summer.
Alonso Wanted Luka Modric to Stay
Indeed, as reported by El Mundo (h/t Defensa Central), Alonso had hoped to keep Luka Modric in the squad, but it ultimately did not happen.
Modric departed the club after the FIFA Club World Cup, leaving as a free agent after over ten years at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Real Madrid parted ways with Modric this summer. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
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The 40-year-old midfielder, now thriving at AC Milan, had expressed a desire to retire at Real Madrid. It has since come to light that Alonso also wanted to retain the experienced midfielder during the summer.
However, those making decisions at the club felt that Modric’s chapter had closed and chose not to renew his contract.
This move appears to have set back the Merengues, as they are now missing the presence and leadership of the Croatian veteran, both in the dressing room and on the field.
Meanwhile, despite being 40 years old, Modric has emerged as a pivotal figure for AC Milan this season, serving as a cornerstone for Massimiliano Allegri’s squad, who are in the hunt for the Serie A title.