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Pressure mounts on Alonso after City defeat
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso faces growing uncertainty over his future following Wednesday's 2-1 Champions League loss to Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabéu. While his position is not immediately at risk, another defeat-this time against Alavés on Sunday-could prove decisive.
Fan frustration boils over
Hostile chants targeting Alonso filled the stadium as Manchester City secured their victory, with away supporters celebrating Pep Guardiola-a former Barcelona coach-amid a charged atmosphere. Many home fans left early, and the club's ultras fell silent after Erling Haaland's penalty sealed City's win in the first half.
Between the 65th and 71st minutes, sections of the crowd whistled in frustration, demanding more effort from the players. Despite creating chances late in the game, Real Madrid's performance left doubts about whether Alonso's tactics are resonating with the squad.
Board deliberates as results falter
Real Madrid's leadership held late-night discussions after Sunday's loss to Celta Vigo, and another meeting is expected following the City defeat. Alonso, who took charge in the summer, enjoyed a strong start, winning 13 of his first 14 matches. However, a 4-1 defeat at Liverpool on November 4 marked a turning point, with the team securing just two victories in their last eight games.
Reports suggest a cultural clash at the club, with some players resisting Alonso's disciplined approach in favor of a high-pressing style. When asked about his players' commitment, Alonso defended them, calling the match a "professional Champions League-level game" and insisting they gave their best.
Squad backs Alonso-for now
England midfielder Jude Bellingham told TNT Sport the team remains "100%" behind their manager, praising his leadership and the squad's internal discussions. "No one is downing tools or complaining," he said. "We know we've let ourselves down in recent games."
Champions League struggles add to woes
Real Madrid currently sit second in La Liga, four points behind Barcelona, and are only eighth in their Champions League group on goal difference. Since winning the tournament two years ago, they have lost five group-stage matches-a concerning trend for a club accustomed to dominance.
Juan Castro, a journalist for Marca, told BBC Radio 5 Live he is "100% pessimistic" about Alonso's prospects. "Another home defeat, another loss in a row-it's hard for a coach to survive this," he said. "Florentino Pérez doesn't tolerate defeat, and finding a replacement in December won't be easy."
What's next?
Alonso's immediate future hinges on Sunday's La Liga match against Alavés. A third consecutive loss could force the board's hand, though no obvious successor has emerged. For now, the manager remains in limbo, with fans and pundits alike questioning whether he can reverse the club's slide.
