Real Madrid Makes Shocking Decision on Xabi Alonso's Future Following Super Cup Heartbreak
Real Madrid has decided to retain manager Xabi Alonso following his team's loss in the Super Cup final, according to recent reports.
Questions surrounding Alonso's position at Madrid emerged in December, when a poor streak of results sparked widespread expectations that he would be dismissed after another defeat. That setback occurred during a Champions League clash with Manchester City, but club leadership was sufficiently impressed by the team's determined display that they chose to delay their ultimate verdict.
Having navigated that challenge, the Super Cup was considered crucial for Alonso's prospects. A triumph over Atlético Madrid shifted all attention to Sunday's final, which concluded with a 3–2 loss to arch-rivals Barcelona.
Per AS, the Bernabéu's power brokers have again adopted a comparable approach, feeling the indicators from the Saudi Arabia defeat were positive enough to retain Alonso in his position.
Strategic adaptability and a strong connection with his players have both benefited Alonso, while he has also received considerable understanding regarding the injury problems that have affected his squad throughout the campaign and left him without a fully-healthy Kylian Mbappé for the final.
Alonso Gradually Changing Perception at Real Madrid
That setback against City in December, the final match in a sequence of merely two victories from eight games, has actually served as something of a pivotal moment for Alonso who, despite again being without Mbappé due to injury, demonstrated he still maintained the squad's support amid reports of locker room discord.
A streak of three consecutive wins helped reduce the tension before La Liga's winter hiatus, following which Madrid have shown marked improvement.
A 5–1 triumph over Real Betis was succeeded by the Super Cup semifinal success against Atlético Madrid, and there were positive indicators in the Clásico despite the unfavorable outcome.
There is no question that losing cup finals, especially to Barcelona, falls short of Madrid's expectations for their team, but those charged with determining Alonso's fate believe he has demonstrated enough to warrant continuing in his role for the time being.
Instead of replacing the manager, Madrid are anticipated to concentrate their efforts on enhancing their medical staff and resolving the injury epidemic which, they feel, has played a role in Alonso's difficulties.