"Goodbye" - Xabi Alonso sends player packing after training chaos

The promising coach tolerates no distractions or inappropriate behaviour. His message from day one has been clear: "Nothing foolish will be permitted." Alonso's role at Real carries immense expectations and numerous challenges from the outset.

One of the biggest challenges is maintaining peace and unity in a star-studded locker room, where almost every player boasts world-class status and a strong personality. It's precisely this explosive mix of top-tier talent and ego that has recently led to significant tension within the squad.

According to Spanish media reports, via Sportal, a heated confrontation occurred between Antonio Rüdiger and winger Vinicius Junior during a recent training session.

Sources close to the club indicate the incident began with a rough tackle by Rüdiger on Vinicius, followed by a verbal exchange of harsh words and a physical shove between the two teammates.

Xabi Alonso, acutely aware of how quickly such incidents can disrupt team morale, reacted strongly and immediately sent Rüdiger home to de-escalate tensions and allow training to continue without further conflict.

"Goodbye," Alonso reportedly told the German, who was forced to calm down and later apologise to his teammates for the unpleasant situation, especially to the Brazilian star forward.

This decision demonstrates Alonso's unwillingness to tolerate indiscipline, regardless of a player's status or importance. The choice to remove Rüdiger from training surprised some players but clearly signalled a shift in hierarchy – anyone not adhering to Xabi Alonso's rules will find no place in the squad.

The question now is how much longer Rüdiger will remain a Real Madrid player. His contract expires on June 30, 2026, but the club has already decided against extending it and is working on a complete squad overhaul, including the defensive line.