Xabi Alonso Fires Back at Real Madrid Exit Speculation
Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso maintained he has the backing of his entire squad while reaffirming his commitment to Los Blancos.
Although he only arrived at the club this summer, Alonso's position may be in jeopardy as sources indicate Madrid leadership conducted emergency discussions prior to Wednesday's Champions League clash with Manchester City, reportedly determining that match would serve as Alonso's final opportunity to salvage his situation at the Bernabéu.
Questions surrounding his tactical approach and handling of star players within the Madrid roster have overshadowed Alonso's time in charge, and with only two victories in seven matches across all competitions, the mounting pressure appears to have reached critical levels.
Predictably, Alonso's pre-match media session was heavily focused on discussions about his future. Facing claims regarding Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham and several other squad members, the coach was questioned about whether he believes the entire team remains behind him.
"Yes," Alonso responded directly.
He elaborated: "We function as a unit, we're united in this challenge. When you hold the Real Madrid coaching position, you must be ready. I'm genuinely excited about what lies ahead, beginning tomorrow. To reverse our fortunes, which is completely reasonable. Our sole focus is on City. In football, circumstances can shift rapidly, for good or ill.
"We're psychologically ready to confront whatever comes next. Everyone believes we can secure victory tomorrow. We must compete with proper tempo and energy. There's absolutely no question about that."
Alonso: Dismisses Dismissal Talk, Liverpool Speculation
Beyond discussions of Alonso's potential exit from the Bernabéu, candidate lists for his replacement have already surfaced.
Castilla manager Álvaro Arbeloa has emerged as a potential option on a shortlist featuring high-profile figures including Zinedine Zidane and Jürgen Klopp.
"Managing Real Madrid means being ready for every type of scenario," Alonso responded to the rumors. "I understand Real Madrid thoroughly. You must adjust and grow. There are positive moments and challenging ones. However, we're making progress with every game. We must confront this challenge and overcome it."
Complicating Alonso's circumstances further are developments at another of his previous clubs. Liverpool, who reportedly pursued the former midfielder following Klopp's 2024 exit, are experiencing their own difficulties which have sparked rumors the Merseyside club might target Alonso to succeed Arne Slot.
When asked about a possible return to Anfield, Alonso firmly dismissed the notion.
"At this moment, this is my location," he declared. "This is my desired destination."
Tchouaméni: Players Responsible for Celta Loss, Not Alonso
Though Madrid have encountered various difficulties this campaign, tensions reached a breaking point following the disastrous 2–0 loss to Celta Vigo that witnessed Fran García, Álvaro Carreras and Endrick all receive red cards.
Alonso's fitness for such a prestigious role was immediately questioned, but midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni defended his manager by arguing the players bore responsibility for the embarrassing Celta result.
"In the Celta match, the coach prepared an effective strategy, but we players are the ones competing," he explained. "If we suffered a 0–2 defeat, it's due to our shortcomings, such as insufficient intensity.
"The manager isn't at fault. We will get better.
"I'm uncertain about mentality, but if we're not succeeding it's because we must perform better. Improve our defensive and offensive play. We need to elevate our performance. We believe we can achieve this. The current situation cannot continue."
Lastly, Tchouaméni reinforced Alonso's assertion that the squad remains unified.
"We stand together in this," he stated. "To achieve victory, we must all contribute. Alongside the coach, with the squad.
"We're competing and must raise our standards. Tomorrow presents an excellent chance to change our trajectory."