ESPN FC Gab & Juls Show: Is this Real Madrid's worst week in recent history?
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Jan 15, 2026 Sam Tighe, a football writer and analyst making his debut, joins Gab Marcotti to dissect Real Madrid’s shocking dismissal of Xabi Alonso after a Super Cup defeat. They delve into the tactical challenges Alonso faced, including counter-pressing and squad dynamics influenced by Vinicius Jr. Tighe also discusses the pressing need for a strong manager at Madrid and the potential market value of Alonso post-sacking. The conversation touches on high-stakes League Cup matches and insightful updates from other major leagues.
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Florentino’s Asset Allocation Created Tension
- Florentino Perez's superstar-first resource allocation created inherent tension with system coaches.
- Gab Marcotti says elevating Vinicius over club balance made integration with Mbappé and Alonso harder.
Trophies Beat Performance At Madrid
- Real Madrid values trophies over process, so short-term failures prompt drastic changes.
- Sam Tighe calls the week one of Madrid's worst because they lost two feasible trophies in five days.
Arbeloa’s Risky Selection Backfired
- Sam Tighe recalls Alvaro Arbeloa being hired to send a message and promote youth from Real Madrid B.
- Gab Marcotti warns starting several youngsters in the Copa led to an immediate burn for Arbeloa.