On this edition of The Real Deal podcast, we’re joined by Hridyam Arora to talk about Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen. We discuss Alonso’s tactical versatility, in-game adaptability, and revitalization of Leverkusen just months into the job.
We examine how Xabi has implemented dynamic, possession-based football in his own visionary style while still adapting to the opposition whenever needed. We also highlight the key talents like Frimpong, Wirtz, Boniface and Grimaldo that are thriving in Alonso’s system.
From midfield maestro to managerial wunderkind, we evaluate how Alonso’s flexible approach, attention to detail, and football IQ make him a fascinating case study for modern coaching strategy. With his pedigree and early success, the sky is the limit for Xabi Alonso’s budding career on the sidelines.
Find us on X, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok at @realdealpods for more takes and banter between episodes on our Managing Madrid Spotify feed!

Did you enjoy this podcast? Get a ton of bonus content exclusively on Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid.
Join our Real Madrid Discord Channel: https://discord.gg/rTD2PmE26f
Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you.
The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going.
Hosts this week:
Siddharth Ramsundar (@TacticalFouling)
Hridyam Arora (@Hridarora22)


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Real Deal Pods: Xabi Alonso - The Coaching Prodigy

We attend every Real Madrid game as press, and release an episode near-daily. Tactics, analytics, formations, transfers, history, Castilla, Femenino. Join the largest Real Madrid podcast on the planet.

Sports

Soccer

The atmosphere at Wembley was electric as Real Madrid lifted the Champions League trophy after a thrilling final against Borussia Dortmund. Our Managing Madrid crew, including Lucas Navarrete from press row, Kiyan Sobhani, Matt Wiltse, Siddharth Ramsundar, and Mehedi Hassan, gathered for a post-game podcast to break down every aspect of this monumental victory.
Here are some key takeaways from the discussion:

IMMACULATE VIBES and an Incredible Atmosphere at Wembley: The crew delved into the pulsating ambiance that filled Wembley, highlighting the sea of white and black and yellow that painted the stands, and the deafening roars that accompanied every crucial moment of the match.

First Half Struggles: Real Madrid had a rocky start as Dortmund dominated the first half. Our experts discussed the tactical missteps and the poor performances that left Madrid on the back foot.

Half-Time Changes: What sparked the dramatic turnaround? The crew analyzed the tactical adjustments and motivational team talks that transformed Real Madrid’s approach in the second half, leading to their resurgence.

Dani Carvajal’s Performance: Carvajal was a standout performer. The discussion covered his defensive solidity, offensive contributions, and overall impact on the game.

Real Madrid’s Season MVP(s): With several standout performers this season, the crew debated who deserves the MVP title for Real Madrid’s triumphant campaign.

Florentino Perez’s Legacy: The conversation turned to Perez’s influence on the club, drawing comparisons to the legendary Santiago Bernabeu Yeste and discussing how Perez’s vision continues to shape Real Madrid’s success.

Carlo Ancelotti’s Legacy: Ancelotti’s tactical genius and ability to manage big games were key to this victory. The panel discussed his legacy and what this triumph means for his career.

Nacho Fernandez’s Redemption: Nacho turning his season around.

Jude Bellingham’s Performance: How did the Englishman perform?

Eduardo Camavinga’s Performance: The young midfielder’s composure, skill, and contributions were praised, with an analysis of how he has grown into a pivotal player for Real Madrid.

And Much, Much More: The podcast covered various other aspects of the game, including tactical nuances, individual brilliance, and the broader implications of this victory for Real Madrid.

If you enjoyed this post-game breakdown, be sure to check out our Patreon page at Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid for exclusive bonus content and in-depth analysis from the Managing Madrid team.


Join our Real Madrid Discord Channel: https://discord.gg/rTD2PmE26f
Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you.
The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going.
Hosts this week:
Siddharth Ramsundar (@tacticalfouling)
Matt Wiltse (@Matt_MM)
Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo)
Lucas Navarrete (@LucasNavarreteM)

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CAMPEONES DE EUROPA!!!!!!!!!!!!

As the excitement builds for the Champions League Final, the Managing Madrid team has taken center stage at Wembley to share their pre-game thoughts and insights. Kiyan Sobhani, Lucas Navarrete, Mehedi Hassan, and Siddharth Ramsundar gathered to discuss everything from the ambiance in London to tactical analyses. Here’s a rundown of their conversation, which you can watch in full in the embedded video above.

Ambiance in London and Wembley

Ratio of Dortmund to Real Madrid Fans

Starting XIs for Both Teams

Tactics

Squad Health Updates

More Stadium Insights


For an in-depth look at all these topics and more, be sure to watch the full pre-game discussion in the embedded video. The Managing Madrid crew’s insights and analysis offer a comprehensive preview of what promises to be an unforgettable Champions League Final.
Stay tuned to Managing Madrid for more live coverage from Wembley and post-game analysis right after the final whistle!
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Pre-Game Thoughts LIVE FROM WEMBLEY Before the Champions League Final

In our latest Managing Madrid Podcast, Lucas Navarrete, who is on duty as press for Managing Madrid at Wembley, was joined by Kiyan Sobhani, Siddharth Ramsundar, and Hridyam Arora to provide an in-depth preview of the highly anticipated Champions League Final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund. Here are the key takeaways from the episode:
The Vibes in Real Madrid’s Locker Room from Wembley
Lucas Navarrete shared exclusive insights from inside the Real Madrid camp.
How Will Borussia Dortmund Approach the Champions League Final?
The panel delved into Borussia Dortmund’s potential strategies. The consensus is that Dortmund will look to exploit Real Madrid’s weaknesses, particularly through quick transitions and set-pieces. The team’s tactical flexibility could pose challenges for Los Blancos.
Sabitzer’s Role
The discussion highlighted the importance of Marcel Sabitzer in Dortmund’s setup.
Mats Hummels Having the Season of His Life
Mats Hummels is experiencing a career renaissance, leading the tournament in tackles, interceptions, and clearances. His defensive prowess will be crucial in keeping Real Madrid’s attackers at bay.
Gregor Kobel, the Miracle Goalkeeper
Gregor Kobel has been nothing short of miraculous between the posts. His exceptional shot-stopping ability and consistent performances have been a cornerstone of Dortmund’s Champions League campaign.
How Dortmund Can Punish Real Madrid
The panel discussed various ways Dortmund could exploit Real Madrid’s vulnerabilities. Quick counter-attacks, exploiting set-piece opportunities, and maintaining a solid defensive structure were among the key points.
Strange Happenings in the Press Room
Lucas shared some intriguing behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the press room.
Takeaways from Today’s Press Conferences
The podcast also covered significant quotes from today’s pre-game press conferences:

Luka Modric emphasized the importance of not underestimating Dortmund, highlighting that the match is closer to a 50-50 battle.

Carlo Ancelotti spoke about the need for clear tactical instructions and managing emotions effectively.

Edin Terzic expressed confidence in Dortmund’s defensive solidity and their readiness to exploit Real Madrid’s weaknesses.

And More
The episode also included various other insights and analyses, making it a comprehensive preview of tomorrow’s big game.
This podcast is available on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube.
Additionally, the Managing Madrid crew will be going live on YouTube 1 hour before the game tomorrow with more pre-game thoughts, as well as right after the final whistle. Make sure you’re subscribed to the YouTube channel to catch all the live action and insights.

Join our Real Madrid Discord Channel: https://discord.gg/rTD2PmE26f
Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for Real Madrid fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you.
The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going.
Hosts this week:
Kiyan Sobhani (@KiyanSo)
Siddharth Ramsundar (@tacticalfouling)
Hridyam Arora (@hridarora22)
Lucas Navarrete (@LucasNavarreteM)
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Champions League Final Preview from Wembley

In our latest podcast episode, hosted by Hridyam Arora and Sam Sharpe, we talk about Castilla’s season in a nutshell, how important it is for a squad rebuild, Raul’s legacy as a coach, and the main reason for Castilla’s dormancy. Here is a sneak peek of what we talk about:
Would this season be considered a success or a failure for the team and Raul?
Judging by the quality this year’s Castilla side boast, would a 10th-placed finish really be considered a success, or is there work ahead for Raul and the boys?
Who stays at Castilla next season?
There are a lot of players who should leave either because they are too good, or they are not good enough, and there are a lot of players who fall into that category.
What is next for Raul?
Raul has, frankly, stayed for a very long time at the club. He has done a phenomenal job at Real Madrid Castilla, and it is understandable to see why he would not want to leave, but is that reason really enough?
The importance of signing new players immediately
We discuss the importance of external talent, not just for Castilla, but for Real Madrid as an entire club. Why is it so important?
Discussing who to keep, and why to keep them
There are players like Manuel Angel who have just had their first year at Castilla, and with a bit more of experience under their belt, they will start to truly blossom as players. Who is on the short, short list of players to keep?
Where is reinforcement needed?
We talk about the positions where Castilla need to sign players before anything else.
And a lot more.
Join the Conversation
Connect with other Real Madrid fans on our Real Madrid Discord Channel. Managing Madrid is your go-to hub for the latest news, in-depth analyses, and community discussions. Your support enables us to continue delivering high-quality content and engaging podcasts.
Hosts This Week:Hridyam Arora @hridarora
Sam Sharpe @CastillaStats
Managing Madrid is powered by a dedicated team, committed to bringing you the best Real Madrid content. Your contributions are invaluable in keeping this platform running smoothly.
Stay tuned for more exclusive content, and thank you for being a part of our community!


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Castilla Corner: The Season Review

Description:
In this exclusive bonus clip from the latest Managing Madrid Members-only podcast, hosts Kiyan Sobhani and Eduardo Alvarez dive deep into the remarkable tribute Toni Kroos received in his last game at the Bernabeu. They discuss whether there has ever been anything quite like it in Real Madrid’s storied history.
This clip is just a taste of the extensive content we provide to our Members. To access the full episode and enjoy tons of bonus shows, join us on Patreon.
In the full episode, Kiyan and Eduardo also cover:

Hansi Flick replacing Xavi at Barcelona

The greatness of Manolo Sanchis

Why Real Madrid being favored in the Champions League Final vs Borussia Dortmund is dangerous

Don’t miss out on the in-depth discussions and insights! Watch the full episode here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/full-video-of-28-105118857
For more Real Madrid content, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and visit our website at Managing Madrid.

This is an exclusive bonus clip for our Managing Madrid Podcast Members. To access more in-depth analysis and discussions, consider becoming a member on Patreon.
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Real Deal Pods: Xabi Alonso - The Coaching Prodigy

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