Xabi Alonso has emphasized that Real Madrid is unified “from the president to the players,” refuting the idea that a public endorsement from the club would strengthen his position as head coach.
Alonso faced intense scrutiny following consecutive home losses to Celta Vigo and Manchester City earlier this month, with ESPN reporting that club officials were considering his future. However, the team has since bounced back with victories against Alavés in LaLiga and Talavera de la Reina in the Copa del Rey.
This Saturday, Madrid will host Sevilla at the Bernabéu in their final match of 2025, just before LaLiga’s Christmas break.
When asked if he would welcome a public show of support from the club, Alonso responded, “No, from the beginning, our initial conversations have shown a good, close relationship. There’s mutual trust and respect. The demands are high, given our goals, but we have a long journey ahead.”
Madrid started the season strong, winning 10 out of their first 11 LaLiga matches. However, a streak of three consecutive draws in November, followed by a loss to Celta, left them trailing their rivals Barcelona by four points going into this weekend.
Regarding the team’s performance this season, Alonso declined to assign a grade, stating, “We only give grades at the end of the year.”
Recently, Madrid has faced an injury crisis, particularly in defense. Nevertheless, players like Eduardo Camavinga, David Alaba, and Ferland Mendy participated in practice on Friday.
“The players practiced today, and some will also train tomorrow morning,” Alonso indicated. “We’ll make a final assessment then.”
Alonso downplayed concerns regarding Vinícius Júnior‘s scoring form, as the forward has not scored in his last 13 matches across all competitions.
“We’re in communication with Vini, and we’re working with him,” Alonso said. “It’s about the games and their moments. He’s been close to scoring, and I have no doubts it will happen soon—let’s hope it comes as early as tomorrow.”