On El Larguero (Cadena SER), Real Madrid journalist Javier Herráez described what television images didn’t capture of Xabi Alonso’s reaction following Real Madrid’s 3–2 win over Talavera in the Copa del Rey. According to the journalist, Alonso appeared visibly shaken throughout the second half and after the final whistle despite advancing to the next round.
Herráez said, “I have seen him completely unhinged. I said the other day that I hoped he would stay and I was happy after the win against Alaves
on a personal level, but today I saw him all game, because I was next to him with the headset, and when he left the pitch I saw him sunk, demoralized.”
The context was clear: Madrid led 2–0 at halftime but nearly lost control in the second half, allowing Talavera, a lower-division side, to press late and almost equalize. Herráez’s observation suggests that Alonso’s emotional response stemmed from the team’s inability to fully control a match they should have closed out comfortably.
Alonso tried to compose himself in the post-match press conference, calling the win and progression to the next round positive, but Herráez stressed that the coach’s body language told a different story. He wasn’t celebrating, he was clearly drained.
