His skills as a midfielder, including pinpoint passing and tactical acumen, made him one of the best in his era. Here are five of his most notable moments as a Real Madrid player.
During his time at the club, Alonso demonstrated his ability to control the game and make crucial decisions. He was known for his calmness, vision, and passing ability, which earned him a reputation as a top-class midfielder.
Alonso's first match for Real Madrid was against Deportivo La Coruña in 2009. He immediately showcased his skills, distributing the ball with precision and controlling the tempo of the game.
One of Alonso's most notable achievements was helping Real Madrid win the Copa del Rey final against FC Barcelona in 2011. Although Barcelona were favorites, Alonso's team managed to win in extra time, with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring the winning goal.
Alonso also played a crucial role in a famous 2-1 win against Barcelona at Camp Nou during the 2011-2012 LALIGA season. He organized the team's defense and frustrated Barcelona's attack, helping Real Madrid secure a record 100 points that season.
Under José Mourinho, Alonso was deployed in a deeper role, where he excelled as a holding midfielder. He formed a strong partnership with other players and provided a solid defensive presence while still contributing creatively.
Alonso played a key role in Real Madrid's journey to La Décima, despite missing the Champions League final due to a red card. His performance in the semifinal against Bayern Munich was impressive, and his sprint to the pitch to celebrate a goal is an iconic image in Real Madrid history.