Capello Warns Xabi Alonso: "Managing Real Madrid Is Something Else"

As Xabi Alonso prepares to return to the Santiago Bernabéu, this time as manager, former Real Madrid boss Fabio Capello has issued a stern warning: “Managing Madrid is a different beast entirely.”

Alonso, who recently confirmed his exit from Bayer Leverkusen after leading the German club to an unforgettable domestic double, is widely expected to be named the successor to Carlo Ancelotti, who will take over the Brazilian national team job this summer.

Speaking on El Partidazo de Cope, Capello — a two-time LaLiga-winning coach with Madrid — cautioned that Alonso's impressive achievements in Germany may not fully prepare him for the pressure cooker that is Real Madrid.

“Xabi Alonso has done some great things. That may be true, but managing Real Madrid is completely different,” Capello said.
“It’s something else. It is more difficult and more important.”

Capello knows the territory well. Despite winning the LaLiga title twice during his two spells in 1997 and 2007, the Italian was dismissed both times, reflecting the relentless expectations at the Bernabéu.

Opinion: Xabi's Greatest Challenge Yet

There’s no doubt Xabi Alonso has the tactical mind, charisma, and player respect to succeed. But as Capello rightly points out, Real Madrid is no ordinary job. At the Bernabéu, winning is mandatory — and even that isn’t always enough.

Alonso is stepping into a cauldron of legacy, ego, media scrutiny, and high-octane ambition. Every decision will be analyzed, every slip magnified. Yet, if there’s anyone who understands Madrid's DNA from the inside out, it’s Xabi.

His appointment marks an exciting chapter — the return of a beloved former midfielder with fresh ideas and modern tactical philosophy. But will that be enough to satisfy the world's most demanding football institution?

Madridistas — is Xabi Alonso the right man to lead the next generation of Galácticos?
Will he thrive or be overwhelmed like many before him?
Drop your thoughts below — will Xabi's Leverkusen magic translate to the Bernabéu?