Real Madrid's Shocking Weekend Collapse Could Ignite Xabi Alonso's Managerial Dreams—Report

Real Madrid's Shocking Weekend Collapse Could Ignite Xabi Alonso's Managerial Dreams—Report

Real Madrid players Álvaro Carreras, Fran García, Endrick and Dani Carvajal have all been handed La Liga bans following their conduct during the club's 2–0 loss to Celta Vigo over the weekend, according to Spanish media reports.

Carreras, Endrick and Carvajal each received two-match suspensions, while García was given a single-game ban, as reported by COPE. The quartet were central to a meltdown for Los Blancos in what should have been a celebratory homecoming at the Bernabéu.

García, who was given an uncommon start at left-back, was dismissed after collecting two yellow cards for dangerous tackles within a minute of each other. The situation deteriorated further for the home side when teammate Carreras was also shown red for arguing with officials during injury time.

The disputed ruling sparked an angry reaction from Real Madrid players both on the field and from the substitutes' bench, including Endrick, who was ejected for his outburst. Meanwhile, the sidelined Carvajal approached referee Quintero González from the sideline while dressed in civilian clothing.

As these infractions took place during La Liga competition, the bans must be completed in Spain's premier division, where Xabi Alonso's squad currently sits four points behind Barcelona. Real Madrid's upcoming two domestic fixtures are against Alavés and Sevilla.

Real Madrid Severely Undermanned for Alavés Clash

These suspensions leave an already weakened Real Madrid squad in an even more precarious situation. Xabi Alonso is currently missing the injured Carvajal, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Éder Militão, Dean Huijsen, David Alaba and Ferland Mendy.

He must now also include Carreras, García and Endrick among his unavailable personnel. The loss of the Brazilian forward is least significant, considering he has only made two brief substitute appearances in 2025–26.

However, without both left-backs available, Los Blancos lack any first-team fullbacks eligible for Sunday evening's match against Alavés. Should Eduardo Camavinga remain sidelined with injury, Real Madrid would be without even a makeshift option for the left side.

Federico Valverde will consequently return to his reluctant role at right-back while Alonso may need to promote a Real Madrid Castilla player to complete his defensive line.