From Pintus to Ismael: New Era in Real Madrid's fitness coaching

Real Madrid has a new head of fitness, Ismael Camenforte. Raised between Barcelona and New York City. Camenforte made his mark with the Danish national team, helping them reach the Euro 2021 semi-finals. His success led him to Bayer Leverkusen, where he worked closely with Xabi Alonso before making the move to Madrid.

In addition to fitness changes, Madrid’s medical staff is undergoing a major shake-up. Dr. Felipe Segura Ortiz, who replaced Niko Mihic in 2023 after mishandling Arda Güler’s knee injury, now has greater authority over recruitment and operations.

Segura has already made his first signing: Manuel Arroyo from Granada, where Segura previously worked. More doctor departures are expected, along with changes to recovery and physiotherapy staff, marking a full-scale revolution in injury prevention, according to AS.

The Decline of the Pintus Era

With Camenforte’s arrival, Antonio Pintus, the architect of Madrid’s famous “Pintus Method”, has stepped back from his leading role. Once instrumental in four Champions League triumphs, Pintus now serves as Performance Manager, taking a more background role during training sessions. Despite staying on staff, his influence has waned due to last season’s poor results and a spate of injuries.

Real Madrid has handed full powers over physical preparation to Xabi Alonso, who has brought in Camenforte to lead fitness. The club has made it clear — a two-headed system won’t work, and Camenforte is now firmly in control of preseason and match preparation.