Real Madrid’s perfect start to the La Liga season is over, and the fallout is already turning icy.
A 5-2 loss to Atletico Madrid has shaken Xabi Alonso’s new project, leaving fans and former players questioning what comes next.
Madrid twice led the derby but collapsed in the second half, conceding three unanswered goals and surrendering top spot in the table to Barcelona.
The defeat came with plenty of sting. Former Madrid coach and club legend Jorge Valdano delivered a blunt assessment on Movistar Plus+, warning that old nightmares have returned.
“Last night that monster was revived,” he said.
“The monster of visiting Barcelona or being visited by Barcelona and conceding four goals was revived. Atletico ended up dominating Real Madrid in a way we haven’t seen in a long time.”
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Jorge Valdano explained where Real Madrid lost the match
Valdano pointed to a lack of fire and a shaky defense as the root of the problem. Despite Madrid enjoying 63 percent possession, Atletico created more danger, finishing with seven shots on target to Madrid’s two.
“Real Madrid didn’t play with the same intensity as Atletico Madrid,” he explained. “Atletico clearly won the match up front. Every cross was a drama, a real drama for Madrid.”
The Argentine great admitted Madrid showed flashes of brilliance, praising the link-up play for Kylian Mbappe’s goal and a sharp move from Vinicius Junior.
But those moments were not enough to mask the structural flaws that Atletico exposed. Valdano noted that even a single lapse in energy left Madrid vulnerable to quick counters and aerial assaults.
For Alonso, this is the first true test of his reign. Six straight league wins gave supporters hope of a smooth transition, but this derby disaster is a loud reminder that rebuilding Europe’s most decorated club is never simple.
A Champions League clash with Kairat now looms large as Madrid look to bounce back and keep their early-season momentum alive.
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