In a rare and sobering address, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez stepped before the media—not to unveil a major signing or celebrate a victory, but to acknowledge mistakes after a disastrous season. For the first time during his second term, Pérez showed vulnerability, taking the blame for decisions that have led the club into turmoil. Following a painful 4-3 home defeat to Barcelona, he admitted: “We misjudged our priorities. I take responsibility for the failure to strengthen our defense and midfield. We didn’t give Carlo [Ancelotti] enough support.”
This emotional confession shocked fans and analysts, signaling a major shift from the confident approach of the Galáctico era. The Clásico defeat did more than just sting—it exposed serious weaknesses. Makeshift defensive pairings like Tchouaméni and young Mario Asencio couldn’t hold up, underlining the squad’s thin depth and aging stars.
Pérez’s recent strategy of relying on free transfers—like Alaba, Rüdiger, and Mbappé—seemed solid in theory, but reality hit hard as injuries and poor squad balance took their toll. Discontent reportedly grew within the locker room, with senior players unhappy about the club’s direction and young talents unsure of their roles.
Matters escalated when incoming manager Xabi Alonso, Ancelotti’s expected successor, reportedly threatened to walk away without guaranteed transfer backing. In response, Pérez promised full support, offering Alonso a “blank cheque” to rebuild the team. Targets for the overhaul include Grimaldo from Leverkusen, defensive stalwart Jonathan Tah, and Inter striker Lautaro Martínez.
This move signals a possible fresh start, but many are skeptical—wondering if Pérez’s remorse is sincere or simply a desperate attempt to save his legacy. The pressure is immense: restoring Madrid’s trademark ambition, intensity, and style won’t be easy.
With major changes ahead, including exits and marquee signings, all eyes are now on Alonso. Whether this marks the beginning of a new era or the end of Pérez’s, only time will tell. For Real Madrid fans, anticipation is mixed with anxiety—the club stands at a crossroads, and the storm is already underway.
