Benatia slams Real Madrid's treatment of Chelsea coach Xabi Alonso

Medhi Benatia has criticised Real Madrid over their handling of Xabi Alonso, arguing that modern football gives players too much influence over decisions made by clubs.

Speaking on Canal+, the former Olympique de Marseille sporting director said clubs often find it easier to dismiss a manager than confront a group of underperforming players.

Benatia pointed to Alonso's departure from Real Madrid as an example, expressing his disappointment at how the Spaniard was treated despite his achievements as a coach.

“I had the chance to play with him. There aren't many teams that have crushed Bayern Munich like he did with Leverkusen. Incredible! He was kicked out like a piece of shit from Real,” Benatia said.

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Benatia questions players' influence over managers

Alonso left Real Madrid by mutual consent in January 2026, less than eight months after taking charge of the Spanish giants.

Benatia then turned his fire on rebellious dressing rooms: "Xabi tried to apply some principles, saying: I won everything as a player, so this is what you have to do. It lasted only three months, and the dressing room turned against him, so he found himself dismissed".

The former defender's comments come as Alonso begins a new chapter in his coaching career at Chelsea, having signed a four-year contract with the Premier League club in May.

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