Real Madrid players stand by Alonso amid uncertain times
Real Madrid players expressed support for their coach Xabi Alonso after suffering a 1-2 defeat to Manchester City. Notably, Spanish media reported that in the event of a loss, the coach could have been sacked.
Champions League 2025-26
Matchday 6, Dec. 10
Real Madrid vs. Manchester City: 1-2
Goals: Rodrygo 28’; Nico O’Reilly 35’, Erling Haaland 43’(P)
According to AS, «the locker room closed ranks in the most delicate moment» and in its entirety expressed support for Alonso. The first to speak was Brazilian forward Rodrygo, who rushed to hug Alonso on the sideline after scoring his goal.
«It’s a difficult time. It is for us and it is for him too. Things aren’t working out and I wanted to show people that we are united with our coach. I know a lot of things are always said. They often try to create a lot of things and I just wanted to say that, that we were united and that we need this unity to move forward and achieve our goal,» the club’s official website cited Rodrygo as saying.
Englishman Jude Bellingham stated that many of Real Madrid’s players get along well with Alonso. He said that the team held discussions following a series of draws and felt that it had left it behind, except for the past two matches. He also added that the locker room has everything needed to improve the situation, but possibly a little luck is required.
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois noted that he did not assess the game as fateful for Alonso. Furthermore, defender Raul Asencio said that the locker room 100% supports Alonso.
«We’re being scrutinized every game. That’s always been the case at Real Madrid. We know the pressure we’re under in every game, whether things are going well or badly. All I can say is that the dressing room understands the message Xabi Alonso is sending out, and the dressing room is behind him 100%. Day-to-day life at Valdebebas is great. We’re experiencing a slightly different or unusual situation in Real Madrid’s seasons. The only thing we players can do is change our attitude, which I think is the most important thing. What everyone wants to see is a change. Attitude is the main thing that needs to change, and I think we’ve seen a change today,» Asencio said.
Notably, the El Mundo insider stating that Real Madrid would have sacked Alonso in case of a loss to Manchester City is not yet confirmed. The next match for Real Madrid is scheduled for Dec. 14 against Alavés.
